
The Whole-Body Deodorant Craze
Well-Informed & Open-Minded by HS
S1 · E163
Dec 13, 2025
11:42
Episode notes
Whole-body deodorant is having a moment in America—and it’s changing how people think about smell. In this episode, we explore the rise of sprays and creams designed for everywhere from feet to groin, driven by aggressive marketing from big brands and a surge in anxiety about body odour. We unpack why most of these products mask scent rather than stop sweat, why doctors warn about irritation and overheating, and whether this trend reflects genuine hygiene needs or a growing discomfort with normal bodies. Is whole-body deodorant a smart innovation—or just insecurity in a can?
https://www.economist.com/business/2024/05/23/americans-are-fretting-over-their-body-odour