An Easy Armpit Detox To Use When Your Deodorant Just Isn’t Cutting It
I went looking for an armpit detox when my deodorants just weren’t cutting it. I had just made the switch to “natural” deodorants (store-bought ones that, to be honest, I didn’t use long before I started making my own) and I could still smell myself. Instead of caking on deodorant or scrubbing my armpits raw, I went looking to see if there was a cause and, if so, what the solution was.
The first thing I did was look into the deodorants I was using and what they do. I found out that traditional deodorants/antiperspirants actually invite these little guys called actinobacteria into your armpits, changing the microbial community, causing odors. Awesome. Then I found out that the chemicals in deodorants are meant to clog the pores in your armpits to keep them from sweating, like aluminum and parabens (both of which we know can be dangerous), which in turn keep the pores stuffed with bacteria that make you smell anyway. Again, awesome.
After feeling grossly bogged down with chemicals and bacteria, I turned my energy towards finding a solution I could live with–one that didn’t involve throwing more chemicals at (or money). Throughout my search, the two main ingredients that kept popping up for a “natural armpit detox” was bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar. Turns out bentonite clay is used to draw out toxins, and the always-amazing ACV has antimicrobial properties. Sounds like the perfect ingredients to unclog pores and kill bad-smelling bacteria, wouldn’t you say?
When I first did this detox (adapted from this recipe), I did it 1-2x a week for 3-4 weeks. Now, I do it as needed–when I notice my smell is happening more frequently or I need to apply deodorant more often. When using my homemade natural deodorant, I only have to apply once every 2-3 days–I kid you not. (This homemade deodorant is more effective and safer than any other deodorant I’ve tried!)
Bentonite Clay and Apple Cider Vinegar Armpit Detox
- 1 tbsp bentonite clay
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1-2 tsp water (optional)
1. Measure and mix the ingredients using a non-metal spoon and a glass bowl.
2. Spread the mixture evenly onto your armpits.
3. Leave on for 5-20 minutes. (Start with a few minutes at a time and build up to 20 minutes. If it hurts at all, remove immediately. However, slight redness and heat is OK because the blood is circulating through that area.)
4. Wash the mixture off with warm water or while you’re in the shower.
5. Repeat as needed until the armpit odor goes away and the natural deodorant is no longer irritating.
NOTE: When you do any kind of detoxing, make sure you’re drinking enough water. This will help the toxins move out of your body as well as keep you hydrated.
The thought that something we buy in the store that’s used to keep us from smelling bad could actually hold the bacteria in and still make us smell bad seems counterproductive and like a waste of money. Make the most out of Nature and clear out those pores! You body and your nose will thank you.
Do you have something that you’ve used that works wonders? Please email us and let us know! We are always looking to expand our knowledge and library of helpful natural solutions.
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