Reopening this as a had a couple of experiences last week:

Taiyuan - Beijing
Usual scrum at the station with loads of bags going through the scanner. They pulled me for an aerosol (again!) so they must be looking quite closely. I explained to the security that I was going to Beijing for a fligh home and they let me on my way

Dong Zhi Men Subway Station Beijing
Went for the airport express, not too busy as it was early and was told I must have my luggage scanned. Again, they pulled me for aerosols. This time I had to unpack and show them the deodourant and the shaving gel. Again told them I was just going to the airport and they let me on my way

They are rather more vigilant than you might think. But a reasonable attitude seems to allow you to keep the (all important) deodourant

nickyboy