Abstract: Deodorant compositions and a method of inhibiting bacterial exoenzymes responsible for the production of steroidal axillary malodor. The method comprises the steps of providing a cosmetic vehicle and dissolving or suspending a deodorant active material which is an inhibitor of bacterial exoenzymes responsible for the production of steroidal axillary malodor therein to produce a deodorant composition. Aryl sulfatase and beta-glucuronidase are the primary bacterial exoenzymes responsible for producing steroidal axillary odor. The deodorant active materials are inhibitors of these exoenzymes and include Cu++, hexametaphosphate (SPORIX), D-glucaro-.tangle-solidup.-lactone, EDTA, NTA, O-phenanthroline, Sodium sulfate or orthophosphate.

Abstract: Deodorant compositions and a method of inhibiting bacterial exoenzymes responsible for the production of steroidal axillary malodor. The deodorant composition contains a cosmetic vehicle comprising inorganic acids, organic acids or water soluble metal salts of fatty acids is combined with a deodorant active material, selected from the group consisting of Zn++ compounds, which is an inhibitor of bacterial exoenzymes responsible for the production of steroidal axillary malodor. The deodorant active materials of the invention directly inhibit the bacterial exoenzymes responsible for the production of steroidal axillary malodor rather than neutralizing unpleasant odors through chemical interaction and indirect inhibition of bacterial growth. These materials may be dissolved or suspended in a cosmetic vehicle in the form of a soap, lotion, fluid, cream, gel stick, powder or spray to provide a deodorant composition to prevent axillary odor without disturbing the natural flora of the axilla.