Let me start off with, it’s hard for me to say (or write) “armpits” … I feel like a little kid, hearing a classmate fart or something #sorrynotsorry but as I continue to delve into the wellness world, I’ve learned the benefits of all natural deodorant. I’m still on the hunt for the perfect one for me, but before switching ideally, you should “detox” your armpits.
Why? How? Ew?
My first thoughts, exactly!
After doing quite a bit of research, I’ve learned (and maybe you’ve heard) our deodorants and antiperspirants are filled, and I mean filled, with chemicals and ingredients that are linked to cancers, hormone disruptors, parabens (defined below) and just a bunch of junk convincing me to make the switch! #imaysmell
In a nutshell, traditional deodorants and antiperspirants block the natural process of allowing our armpits to sweat and sweating is a major process of getting rid of toxins in the body.
I couldn’t help but think of the phrase, “it’s better out than in.“
Here is a list (courtesy of Wellness blogger, Overthrow Martha) of the most common chemicals that may do the “job” short-term, but after reading them, you may want to change your mind:
Aluminum– some evidence links aluminum to cancer and Alzheimer’s Disease
Phthalates– Endocrine disruptors often also found in plastic that can cause hormone imbalance and even infertility
Propylene glycol– common name: antifreeze. It is a hotly debated additive in personal care products but the Environmental Working Group reports that it carries a moderate risk of immunotoxicity and allergies.
Formaldehyde- a known carcinogen(promotes the formation of cancer)… guess it kills the germs though.
Parabens- Hormone disruptor and parabens have been found in biopsied tissue with breast cancer
Antibacterial Substances- Endocrine disruptors which can negatively affect the immune system
Are you convinced yet?
If you’re ready to make the switch, you may want to complete an armpit detox so you can get rid of these chemicals that we’ve been loading into our bodies for way too many years!
Now I know people who didn’t detox and went right to an all-natural deodorant and had success. I chose to detox (and still doing so) and here’s how!
What you need:
- 1 TBS of Bentonite Clay (got it at a health food store, but of course you can get it via Amazon)
- 1.5 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons water to start, may need to add more to achieve the right consistency
Do This:
- Mix the three ingredients together using a rubber or plastic spatula- do not use a metal utensil or dish. The desired texture should be paste-like.
- Apply just enough under your armpits so there is a thin layer- leave on for 5 mins and work your way up to 15-20 over time.
- Rinse off in shower or with a washcloth.
- Do this a few days a week and ideally, you’ll know when it’s working when you don’t smell or sweat as often.
What I’ve Learned:
Deodorant=helps battle smell, antiperspirant=battles the sweat. Haven’t found an all natural, deodorant and antiperspirant in-1.
I am still in the process of detoxing and finding the right all natural deodorant and antiperspirant.
I still smell and sweat. (I’ve been detoxing 2-3 days per week for about two weeks now)
I’ve tried Tom’s all Natural and I’m not sure if I like Native 100%. I’m still looking for ideas!
Please feel free to share your all stories and product recommendations. It’s now winter so I’m hoping to have this all figured out by Summer. If not, WATCH OUT!! #imaybegross #letshopenot
Leave a Reply