According to The World Bank, one billion people, or 15 percent of the world’s population, experience some sort of disability. Despite that high percentage, there is currently no deodorant with these individuals, specifically those with upper limb disabilities, in mind—until now.
Today, deodorant and antiperspirant brand Degree introduced the world’s first inclusive deodorant, known as Degree Inclusive, designed for those with visual impairment and upper limb motor disabilities. The brand collaborated with design experts from advertising brand Wunderman Thompson, occupational therapists, engineers, and those living with upper limb disabilities to create a prototype that makes the deodorant application process more accessible.
Instead of the usual straight bottle and twist-up bottom, the innovative deodorant features a hooked design for one-handed use, defined grip placement for those with no arms or a light grip, a larger ball-shaped applicator that covers more ground with less effort, and a braille label with instructions for those with limited vision.
This new design has not only undergone trials and testing by the professionals, but it’s also been approved by members of the disabled community. To receive feedback on the user-side and improve the experience for launch, Degree has partnered with The Chicago Lighthouse, Open Style Lab, and Muscular Dystrophy Association.
“As a brand that’s committed to inspiring confidence in everyone to move more, Degree believes no one should be held back from experiencing the transformative benefits of movement,” says vice president Kathryn Swallow. “More than 60 million people in the U.S. live with a disability, yet products and experiences are still not designed with this community in mind. With Degree Inclusive we hope to inspire bold action across the industry to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal playing field.”
