Skin Anarchy Episode Summary: "The Science of Sweat And Skin Balance With Surface Deep"
Host: Dr. Ekta
Guest: Dr. Alicia Zalka, Founder and CEO of Surface Deep
Release Date: August 13, 2025
Introduction
In this enlightening episode of Skin Anarchy, Dr. Ekta welcomes Dr. Alicia Zalka, a seasoned dermatologist with over 30 years of clinical experience and the visionary behind Surface Deep, a groundbreaking brand in the body care and deodorant space. The conversation delves deep into the science of sweat, skin balance, and the innovations shaping effective and gentle body care solutions.
Dr. Zalka's Journey and Motivation
Dr. Zalka shares her extensive background in medical dermatology, emphasizing her transition from clinical practice to entrepreneurship. Her inspiration to create Surface Deep stemmed from personal frustration with conventional deodorants and a desire to develop a product that truly cares for delicate underarm skin.
Dr. Zalka [00:47]: "I have over 30 years in clinical practice, and when I realized I didn't have a reliable deodorant, it sparked the creation of Surface Deep."
Understanding Underarm Skin and Body Odor
Intertriginous Skin: Dr. Zalka explains that underarm skin is classified as intertriginous, characterized by its thinness, high moisture levels, and unique microbiome. These factors make it highly susceptible to irritation and imbalance.
Dr. Zalka [06:47]: "Intertriginous skin is very delicate and easily irritated. We need to be gentle with it."
Sweat vs. Odor: A fundamental distinction is made between sweat and body odor. While sweat itself is odorless and serves as the body's natural cooling mechanism, body odor results from the interaction of sweat with specific bacteria on the skin.
Dr. Zalka [09:31]: "Sweat is intentional, but odor is preventable."
The Science Behind Surface Deep's Anti-Odorant
Formulation: Surface Deep's anti-odorant is neither a traditional deodorant nor an antiperspirant. Instead, it leverages glycolic acid and postbiotic ferments to maintain optimal skin pH and support the microbiome.
Dr. Zalka [15:29]: "Our anti-odorant keeps the pH at its perfect set point, maintaining the skin's acid mantle."
pH and Microbiome Balance: Maintaining an acidic pH (~5.5) is crucial for preventing the overgrowth of odor-causing bacteria like Staphylococcus hominis. Surface Deep avoids harsh ingredients like aluminum and baking soda that can disrupt this balance.
Dr. Zalka [15:29]: "By keeping the pH acidic, odor-causing bacteria don't have a chance to thrive."
Clinical and Consumer Studies: Surface Deep has undergone rigorous testing, showing impressive results with 100% of participants reporting no irritation and significant odor prevention.
Dr. Zalka [43:55]: "In our clinical study, the majority of participants reported no odor and no irritation."
The "Stinky Seven": Body Areas Prone to Odor
Dr. Zalka introduces the concept of the "Stinky Seven", identifying seven key body areas where odor tends to develop due to moisture retention and bacterial activity:
- Scalp and Behind Ears
- Underarms
- Between and Under Breasts
- Belly Button
- Abdominal and Thigh Folds
- Feet and Between Toes
Dr. Zalka [28:19]: "These areas retain moisture and create an environment where odor-causing bacteria can flourish."
Impact of Menopause on Body Odor
Menopausal and perimenopausal women experience hormonal fluctuations that affect sweat production and skin pH, potentially increasing body odor. Dr. Zalka highlights the importance of maintaining skin balance during this life stage.
Dr. Zalka [38:40]: "As we age, our skin's pH tends to rise, increasing the potential for odor-causing bacteria."
Discussion on Aluminum in Deodorants
Aluminum compounds are common in antiperspirants but come with concerns regarding skin irritation and potential health risks. While prescription-strength aluminum can be effective for conditions like hyperhidrosis, Dr. Zalka advocates for aluminum-free alternatives to avoid unnecessary chemical exposure.
Dr. Zalka [49:41]: "There is no proven cause-and-effect link between aluminum in deodorants and conditions like breast cancer or Alzheimer's, but I prefer to avoid it if possible."
She emphasizes the importance of understanding ingredient replacements rather than simply removing controversial substances without considering their effects.
Dr. Zalka [52:39]: "Natural doesn't always mean safe. Poison ivy is natural but causes rashes."
Final Thoughts
Dr. Zalka and Dr. Ekta conclude by stressing the necessity of educated consumer choices and the importance of products that support the skin's natural balance without excessive layering or harsh ingredients. Surface Deep emerges as a thoughtful solution in the deodorant market, prioritizing skin health and effective odor prevention.
Dr. Ekta [53:57]: "Surface Deep is the best option for an anti-odorant that doesn't feel like a maintenance headache."
Key Takeaways
- Sweat vs. Odor: Understanding the biological difference is crucial for effective odor management.
- Skin Balance: Maintaining the skin’s natural pH and microbiome is essential for preventing body odor.
- Ingredient Awareness: Consumers should look beyond marketing claims and understand the role of each ingredient in their body care products.
- Targeted Application: Focus deodorant use on the "Stinky Seven" areas for optimal results.
- Hormonal Changes: Menopause affects skin pH and sweat production, necessitating careful product selection.
For more insights and expert discussions on beauty and skincare science, tune into Skin Anarchy and join the conversation on Instagram @skincareanarchy.