The Smelly Truth About Natural Deodorant | Armpit Detox
Making the switch to a natural deodorant is not easy – at least if you care how you smell! Most people experience a 3-7 day period of detoxification after making the switch to a natural deodorant. Let me put it this way…in the beginning, you won’t smell like roses…in fact, it may be more like, “Houston, we have a problem.” Don’t worry, I wouldn’t be writing if there wasn't hope!
If you’ve spent a lifetime wearing commercial deodorants containing unhealthy ingredients then you need to do a little detoxification before you’ll be pleased with ANY natural deodorant. Our goal is for you to LOVE making healthy choices so this article is here to help you speed through your detoxification phase into satisfied customer phase.
Your underarm area is essential to your immune system. It is loaded with lymph nodes and apocrine (sweat) glands. This is an area of your body that NEEDS to be unburdened in order for you to remain healthy because its job is to flush toxic substances out of your body.
If you’ve been using traditional antiperspirants, then you have been purposely “plugging” your sweat glands. If that statement didn’t bother you, then check out the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Breast cancer is now the most common cancer in women. Your race and your place of residence are factors.
There is a lot of debate as to whether or not commercial antiperspirants could be causing these skyrocketing statistics, but I like the old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Why wait for definitive evidence if you already know there are safer alternatives? Look at just a few of the ingredients in common antiperspirants:
- Antibacterial Ingredients – some are known to disrupt the endocrine system and have a negative impact on our immune system.
- Aluminum – there is evidence linking aluminum to both Alzheimer’s Disease and cancer.
- Formaldehyde – a known carcinogen.
- Fragrance – “fragrance” is often a “secret,” which is frightening. Many are immune system toxicants and allergens.
- Phthalates – endocrine disruptors. Remember those plastic bottle warnings??
- Propylene glycol – you’ll find this in many personal care products. Risks include immunotoxicity and allergies. Propylene Glycol (PG) is a petrochemical derivative used as a humectant and penetration enhancer in cosmetic products. Propylene Glycol is also the active ingredient in antifreeze solutions used in cars.
- Parabens – hormone disruptor. Researchers have found parabens in biopsied breast cancer tissue.
- Triclosan – is an antibacterial phenol. It is found in toothpaste, acne creams, deodorants, lotions, and hand soaps. You’ll even find it in kitchen tiles, children’s toys, cutting boards, toothbrush handles, hot tubs and athletic clothing. According to EWG:
- 1 tablespoon Bentonite Clay.
- 1 teaspoon Raw Apple Cider Vinegar.
- Slowly add small amounts of water until you have a manageable consistency (think greek yogurt).
Another great way to speed along the detoxification process is to dry brush your underarm area. My favorite dry brush can be found here. Dry brushing is also great for cellulite!
I hope these tips help you overcome the hurdles of switching to a natural deodorant. Give yourself a pat on the back – you’ve just unburdened your body! Every small step adds to a healthier you! Hooray!