For most of my life, I relied on conventional deodorants. They worked well, smelled nice, and got the job done. But honestly, I never gave much thought to the ingredients in them—until I started researching the products my family uses daily.
When I took a closer look at deodorants, I uncovered two shocking truths: how antiperspirants work and the toxic chemicals hidden in most conventional deodorants. Before we dive into why you should detox your armpits—and how to do it—it’s essential to understand why it’s best to ditch most antiperspirants and deodorants altogether.
Why You Should Avoid Antiperspirants
Antiperspirants are specifically designed to reduce the production of sweat. They use aluminum salts as their active ingredient, which dissolve into the skin’s surface and form a barrier that temporarily blocks sweat glands. While this might sound convenient, there’s a reason your body sweats – it’s a natural detoxification process. Blocking sweat can disrupt this balance.
There’s also ongoing speculation about a potential link between antiperspirants and breast cancer. While studies are inconclusive, I personally don’t want to risk it, and that’s why I’ll never use antiperspirants again.
The Problem with Conventional Deodorants
Beyond aluminum, conventional deodorants often contain a cocktail of harmful chemicals. Here are some ingredients that raise serious red flags:
- Aluminum: Linked to Alzheimer’s disease and osteoporosis. I avoid it in every possible form (you can read more about this in my post about aluminum).
- Parabens: Endocrine disruptors that interfere with hormone production. Learn more in this article.
- Phthalates: Another endocrine disruptor known to wreak havoc on the body.
- Propylene Glycol: A neurotoxin linked to kidney and liver damage.
- Triclosan: An antibacterial agent that disrupts hormones and may contribute to antibiotic resistance.
- Synthetic Fragrances: Often labeled simply as “fragrance,” these can include a mix of undisclosed chemicals, many of which are associated with allergies, skin irritation, and hormone disruption.
- Butane and Isobutane: Propellants in aerosol deodorants that are linked to cancer and banned in some countries.
When you apply these products, you’re essentially putting a chemical cocktail on one of the most sensitive parts of your body—your armpits. Making the switch to natural deodorants is a simple way to reduce your exposure to these harmful ingredients and support your overall health.
Why You Need to Detox Your Armpits
At this point, you might be thinking, “I’ll just switch to a natural deodorant and call it a day.” But here’s the catch: if you’ve been using conventional deodorants for years, toxins have likely built up in your armpits, making them extra smelly during the transition to natural deodorants. Detoxing your armpits helps clear out those harmful chemicals, minimize smells, and gives the natural deodorant a chance to work its magic.
For most people, a few rounds of armpit detox are enough when switching from conventional to natural deodorant. However, every body is different, and some may need more rounds to cleanse fully. You’ll know the detox has worked when your armpits no longer have an unpleasant odor. At the end of this article, I’ve shared additional tips to help you determine how many detox sessions you might need.
Remember, this is a gentle and safe detox. If your armpits start smelling unpleasant again in the future, there’s no need to worry—you can simply repeat the process as needed.
Signs You Need an Armpit Detox
Having some odor and bacteria on your armpits is normal. However, a buildup of toxic chemicals from years of using conventional deodorants could be why your armpits have a persistent and strong odor.
You might need an armpit detox if you’re dealing with:
- Persistent body odor: If your armpits smell bad even after using a natural deodorant, the toxin buildup could be blocking your pores and not allowing them to fully detox. A detox can clear out these toxins, allowing your natural deodorant to work much more effectively.
- Rashes from baking soda in natural deodorants: Many natural deodorants contain baking soda, which can cause irritation if toxins are still present. Detox your armpits and try the deodorant again. If the rash persists, you may have a sensitivity to baking soda and might need to switch to a baking soda-free deodorant like this one.
- Sweat stains or discoloration: A buildup of toxins can cause your underarms to develop yellowish stains on clothing or even discoloration on the skin. Detoxing can help restore balance and may even improve the appearance of your underarms over time.
- Increased sweating during transition: When switching to natural deodorant, some people notice they sweat more as their body adjusts. Detoxing can help regulate this process and make the transition smoother.
- Sensitivity to scents or chemicals: If conventional deodorants have left your underarms irritated or overly sensitive to fragrances and chemicals, detoxing can help reduce irritation and create a fresh start for your skin.
- Frequent buildup: If your armpits feel sticky or seem to have a residue even after washing, it may be due to a buildup of product over time. Detoxing helps remove this residue completely.
The best way to switch to natural deodorant is by first cleansing your armpits of all those lingering toxic chemicals. Even if you don’t think you need a detox, chances are you’ll benefit from it. It’s quick, easy, and well worth the effort.
After an armpit detox, you’ll notice your armpits smell fresher and don’t get as stinky throughout the day. Plus, your natural deodorant will work so much better!
How to Detox your Armpits: DIY Armpit Detox Mask Recipe
This is the easiest DIY recipe you’ll ever have to make!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of bentonite clay
- 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar
- Water (optional)
- Aloe Vera spray (optional)
Or you can buy an armpit detox kit with all the pre-measured ingredients you need here (you can also find it on Amazon here).
Directions:
In a small glass bowl, mix the bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar. Use a wooden or plastic spoon – do not use a metal spoon since it affects the clay’s properties.
Stir the mixture until it forms a smooth paste with a consistency similar to the picture below. If it feels too thick, add a small amount of water and mix until you achieve the desired texture.
Once it’s ready, spread on your armpits and leave it on for 5-15 minutes. If this is your first time doing a detox, I suggest you start with 5 minutes.
You shouldn’t feel anything when you have this mixture on your armpits; however, if it’s burning or hurting, remove it immediately.
When the time is up, wash it off in the shower or with a cloth. I personally do the detox before I take a shower so I can just wash it off.
After removing the bentonite clay mixture and drying my armpits, I like to spray them with this Aloe Vera to soothe and heal the skin (or use fresh gel from an aloe vera plant if you have one). This step is not a must, but it supports the detox process and it’s great for your skin.
As always, when doing any type of detox, make sure you drink plenty of water to help your body detox faster.
How Often Should You Detox?
This detox is gentle enough to do daily, but I recommend starting with 2–3 times per week. Many people notice improvements within the first week, but every body is different, and you may need additional rounds to see full results.
Repeat the process until your armpits no longer have a strong odor. If you’re detoxing to address irritation from baking soda in natural deodorants, continue until the irritation subsides.
Listening to your body’s cues is key. Pay attention to how your armpits feel and smell – these cues will let you know when the detox is complete and you’re good to go. Detoxing your armpits is a small but impactful step toward reducing your body’s toxic load.
Not All Natural Deodorants Are Created Equaler
I have a theory: people react differently to natural deodorants because everyone’s body chemistry is unique. What works wonders for one person might fall short for another, and that’s perfectly normal. If you’ve detoxed your armpits for a few weeks and still aren’t getting the results you’d like, it’s likely time to experiment with a new natural deodorant.
Our bodies can respond differently to various ingredients, so finding the right natural deodorant may take a little trial and error. Some formulas might not work well with your body chemistry, while others will be just right. For instance, certain skin types might tolerate formulas with baking soda well, while others need gentler options like magnesium-based or baking soda-free deodorants.
When trying new options, consider testing deodorants with different bases or active ingredients, such as coconut oil, arrowroot powder, or activated charcoal. These ingredients can interact with your body in unique ways, and one might be better suited to your needs.
It’s also worth noting that seasonal changes, diet, and even stress levels can affect how well a deodorant works. Don’t be afraid to switch things up if your go-to product suddenly feels less effective.
Final Thoughts
Switching to natural deodorant and detoxing your armpits is a small yet powerful step toward reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals and embracing a healthier lifestyle. By eliminating toxic ingredients from your daily routine, you’re helping to reduce the chemical load on your body, which may lower the risk of long-term health issues, including hormone disruption, disease, and even cancer.
While the transition might take some patience, the benefits of fresher-smelling, toxin-free underarms, and improved overall health are well worth it. Remember, every body is unique – detox at your own pace, experiment with different natural deodorants, and listen to what your body needs.
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I love this idea! Instead of the clay, could I use activated charcoal or diatomacious earth? I have both of those on hand. I have both of those on hand.
I haven’t used any of those but I would try first with diatomacious earth. Let me know how it goes. 🙂
At Whole Foods, Green Acres Market, etc, there is a deodorant replacement also that is a small block of salt, shaped similarly to a bar of soap that you dampen with just a bit of water and rub onto the armpit. It has no fragrance whatsoever and there is no sweaty smell even after working out in the yard all day in Kansas. My husband just now is needing a replacement and it’s been a little over a year since we purchased the last one. Conventional men’s deodorants started breaking him out badly. The salt version may be an alternative to those who don’t fare well with baking soda. I am definitely going to try your detox!
Thanks for the tip! There are some of these salt versions that contain Potassium alum. If you’re avoiding aluminum then I would avoid this too. Just check the ingredients. 🙂
Remember the DE is harsh on the lungs so don8breath it in. I have not used deodorant for years but use a spray of the ACV in each arm pit for a few minutes before showering. I kills the bacteria that causes the athletic smell.
can it be stored or made as needed ?
SO interesting. Would this be safe while breastfeeding?
Yes, it’s safe. You’re just pulling out toxins from the armpits. I’m also a breastfeeding mama. ❤️
After washing off detox, can I use natural deodorant?
Yes! That’s what I do.
Love this! You know, after 3 years of only using natural deodorants I realized that I didn’t need a deodorant anymore… I had stopped smelling! I attributed it to a clean diet, but maybe it’s because the old build up of toxins was finally gone!
That’s so awesome! I think you’re right – diet plays a big role in how we smell. ?
I agree almost completely with this recipe for detoxing. However, I would like to inform you that using apple cider vinegar is very toxic. Apple cider vinegar is actually acid. I will figure out what would be a better alternative and do some research. Maybe just water or adding charcoal would be best. Thank you for sharing your post. I have been learning so much these past few years on sticking to a better diet and all natural products have changed my life. I too have suffered from these problems from my armpits and it truly makes a difference detoxing. Dr. Sebi is very interesting and I’ve learned much more from him. You can look him up on YouTube. Many ingredients to spices and foods that we know of are man made. I’m not religious but I do believe there is a higher power and only the most natural things we were given on this earth was intended for us to consume or use as a natural healing benefits without harming our bodies that should only be used. Thought I share with you and all. Thanks again for the post.
I would love for you to elaborate on how you came with the conclusion that Apple cider vinegar is toxic. 🙂
As far as this recipe, the acidic nature of the Apple cider is what helps kill the bacteria. It is also a very small amount.
You could try just doing the detox with water and bentonite clay if you want to skip the ACV. I personally haven’t found any reason why it would be dangerous or toxic to use to ACV this way.
Agree with Carolina on this one! ACV has changed my life! Helps burn fat when taken orally ??
What is the name of this natural deodorant
I’m having so much trouble postpartum with armpit odors and it started when I turned 40 and was still nursing my toddler BEFORE I got pregnant with my now 7 week old. At that time I switched to natural for the same reasons as you and I assumed that it would take a while to detox naturally but it’s been over a year! I never heard of armpit detoxing! I’m trying this ASAP (ordering the clay no). I literally went to a dermatologist and they prescribed me a n antibiotic with alcohol to put on my underarms so that I was able to go out – it was that bad. That medicated gel worked until now and I was considering removing my sweat glands cause I am so depressed by this crazy experience and embarrassed. If this works I’m going to cry. Thanks for the tip!
Two questions. 1) Why can’t metal touch the clay? 2) Why would I need to start with only 5 minutes? (Or is this just to prevent stinging?) I’ve never used the clay for anything so I know NOTHING about it!
1- The clay absorbs the metals (that’s how it draws out the toxins) and becomes less effective so if you use a metal spoon it will draw out the properties from the spoon.
2- it’s just to prevent stinging and irritation. Some people can do it longer without any issues but some might have more toxin build up or sensitive skin. I always recommend to try something for a little bit in case of any sensitivities the person might have.
Thank you! I have used a metal spoon before. I will definitely be using a wooden spoon from now on.
Hi there! I came across this while searching through pinterest ways to heal the rashes natural deodorant is leaving under my arms. A simple skin patch test this past fall to test for one allergy led to the discovery that I’m allergic to almost every chemical put in body care stuff. I switched all my stuff but was having a hard time with deodorant. The gentle arrowroot powder stuff left me very stinky and the baking soda stuff left me with painful rashes. I switched back to conventional deodorant and the rashes went away. A few weeks ago I found another that combined both arrowroot and baking soda but that left me with rashes too. Then I found this blog and I thought I might as well try. I mixed the tblsp clay with 2 tsp acv and it just balled up and didn’t form a paste until I added another tsp. What did I do wrong? Also is this safe to wash down the drain? I have a metal kitchen sink but a porcelain bathroom sink. Which would be safer to wash the bowl in? Sorry for the long post! I hope you can provide some insight!
Where you using the same bentonite clay? You could try adding a little bit of water or aloe Vera spray if you have some.
Since you’re having rash issues you’ll need to do this several times – about 2-3 times a week for a few weeks.
You can wash the mixture down the drain. The only reason why you can’t use a metal spoon it’s because the clay draws out all the toxins from the metal spoon and it won’t be as effective in your armpits.
I used a different brand that I could find nearby. There’s no indication that it is anything but pure bentonite clay. I’ll try adding some water next time instead of another teaspoon of acv. Will it have the same effectiveness? I’ll use like you suggested and hopefully it helps! Thank you!
It should look like my pictures. I would try again following my recipes and make sure you mix it well and if it’s still doesn’t look right just add a tad of water. It will work. 🙂
Let me know how it goes!
I can’t say I’m in the camp of detoxing as I’ve use milk of magnesia (plain) for deodorant for many years with success. When I’ve run out I’ve used baking soda in a pinch and have always developed an irritation if used for several days. I’ve read elsewhere, on more than one site, I t may be the PH of the baking soda and repeated use on skin; food for thought.
Thanks for your comment! It could be a skin sensitivity issue but I wouldn’t use straight up baking soda. I’ve heard juice from a squeezed lime helps but I haven’t tried it. ?
Hi…
I always use lime, directly squeezed on my armpits. It works really well, even after the next day. We have a lime tree at home, but since I moved out from there and kinda hard to get lime whenever i needed, so I was planning to make natural deo. Thanks for your recipe
You’re welcome Risa! Hope you like it!
Just a note on lime, it works great but if you put it on your skin and it gets exposed to sun, it can burn. The armpits should be fine since they’re covered most of the time but if you go back to using lime, make sure you don’t do it when you’re wearing tank tops.
Thank you Wendy! I have used baking soda on my face for an acne treatment before and didn’t have issues. It could be that my armpits are more sensitive than my face. I’ll try this detox and if I’m still getting a rash I’ll try arrowroot again, I might not be as stinky this time around 🙂
Also, the first time I whipped this up, I used the store brand acv I had on hand. I bought organic acv and it made all the difference. Crazy!
Ahh interesting!
Let me know how it goes. ?
Where do I buy the clay?
You can buy it on Amazon – under the ingredients section, there’s a link for it. You should also be able to find it in health food stores and Whole Foods Market.
Very interesting idea! Where can you find the clay in person? Would they have it at Ulta?
Hi! I’m not sure what’s Ulta but you can find it in stores like Whole Foods or your local health food store.
Great idea !! I already use this mixture on my face and would’ve never thought of putting it on my pits haha but two questions… 1. Would it be ok to still use store-bought deodorant after doing this?? 2. Should you shave you armpits before or after this detox??? Thanks in advance !!!
Elena, yes, you can use store bought deodorant but I would try to stick to a natural brand.
I wouldn’t do it right after shaving your armpits in case they’re sensitive but it really doesn’t matter when you do it. 🙂
If it pulls out toxins then does it also pulls out Oxygen ? And how does this help when bacteria causea the smell ? Also what is considert a toxin here because everything can be toxic if you use to much or to little .?
Hi! I’m not sure what you mean about the oxygen part.
The Apple cider Vinegar helps kill the bacteria. This detox in combination of a natural deodorant will help keep the bacteria in check and restore your Ph.
As far as toxins, I mean the ones in conventional deodorants that accumulate in your arm pits.
The longer you’ve been using a conventional deodorant, the more build up you will have. Once you do the detox it will start coming out (you will notice your arm pits might get very stinky during Detox).
I sweat a lot and only from my armpits so strugglw finding a conventional deo that dries me up. After detoxing, will an all natural deodorant help to control the sweat. I literqlly drip and its very unpleasant esp for a female. Thank you
Hi Rumbi! I don’t have a definitive answer for you. This helps deal with the smell issue but I am not sure about the amount you sweat. However, I have heard from two friends that after the detox and about a month of using a natural deodorant, the are sweating less. My guess is that maybe the excessive sweat was somehow related to some of the build up toxin but I’m not 100% sure. If you can try it out for a month, I would. 🙂
If you sweat that much, try finding a dermatologist that can use Botox to reduce the amount of sweat you produce.
Hi!! Excited to give this detox a try. I tried a natural deodorant maybe a year or two ago and it broke me out. So I gave up but I will definitely try your detox recipe. Do you mind sharing the exact amount of clay and ACV you used in you recipe? Thanks, kindly!
I used the exact amount listed under the ingredients section. It has worked very well for me. I make my own DIY deodorant and haven’t had any rash issues. 🙂
Hey what can i use instead of bentonite clay something that works well
i don’t where i can find that clay in my country ( Sri Lanka)
I really love to try this DIY as i hate those deodrants they have made my under armpits so dark 🙁
Do you happen to have Activated Charcoal, like this one: http://amzn.to/2r84dU2
You can try that instead. Sub the bentonite clay for the activated charcoal and the vinegar for water.
I personally haven’t tried this but I think it should work.
Do you have any suggestions on essential oils that I can add to this? I cannot stand the smell of vinegar…or would adding oils be counter-intuitive to the whole detox process?
If you can’t stand the smell of vinegar I would just use water. I am not sure if it’s as effective so you might just have to do the detox several times.
Can you tell me about that particular clay I’ll try to find it 🙂
I don’t know anything about.
Where can I find it ? Like online atleast
If you click on the link in the ingredient list it will take you to Amazon, where you can buy the bentonite clay.
Hi! Can i use kaolin clay instead of Bentonite?
I haven’t tried it, but I think it should work. 🙂
Thanks much for this tip cause I recently near end of 2022 switched from antiperspirant deodorant (used for years when Degree brand came out) to one without Toxins–Schmidt’s. brand & found pits were a bit smelly. So will try this detox to see if it eliminates that issue as I’m active year round: walking, yard works, etc.
What is your recipe for your homemade deodorant?
We are ording some and we like it. But if I can make it and save us money.
Here it is: https://mamainstincts.com/diy-deodorant-bar/
Hope you love it as much as we do!
How long/applications would you say this takes to work for someone who has always used deodrant, not natural?
It’s really hard to tell since it depends on what you’ve been using and your body. I’ve had friends that only did it for a week but another did it for a month before her pits stop smelling.
Hi ! I’m breastfeeding and pregnant and I’ve always read and been instructed to avoid all detoxes while nursing or pregnant. However I’m struggling with smell and my arm pits breaking or terribly. If possible can you help me understand the reason it’s ok to detox while breastfeeding ?
This detox draws the toxins out. I’ve done it while breastfeeding my toddler with no issues. That being said, you should always consult with your doctor to make sure it’s okay for you.
Oh I just saw that you’re pregnant so I would ask your OB. I haven’t done this pregnant nor asked my doctor about doing this pregnant.
What is your favorite kind of natural deodorant? I’ve recently starting using Native. I’ve been using it for almost a month and it has been a huge adjustment for me! I do feel as though I ‘stink’ after a couple hours. The instructions said to give it a month, so I am sticking with it. I will try this detox, too!
I have been making my own for a while and just use that now. Here’s the recipe: https://mamainstincts.com/diy-deodorant-bar/
I also have some deodorant recommendations on that link.
With all natural deodorants you have to give it about a month because your armpits need to detox. This detox speeds up that process so you might want to try it out. 🙂
Do you have to keep your arms up and dies the clay have to dry?
I do keep my arms up. I usually lay on the couch and watch TV while I’m waiting. The clay does dry up if you do it for 15-20 minutes but if you do it for less, it won’t be dry when you rinse it off.
I’ve started using a more natural deodorant couple weeks ago through the Lemongrass spa line and love it. But I am now just hearing about detoxing armpits. I don’t get stinky pits and was wondering if I would still need to detox and if so, how much since I’m not noticing any kind of stink?
If you’re not noticing your armpits are stinky you don’t really have to do it but if you’ve been using conventional deodorant for a long time I would do the detox for about a week.
Like Beth, I also don’t have smelly pits but I thought doing the detox and pulling all that crud out of my system would make me smell. So the people who are having issues with stinking already were stinking before the detox? The detox doesn’t cause the smell?
I think most people doing the detox are using a natural deodorant and have toxins coming out and it’s making them smell bad. Hence, why the detox helps because it speeds up the process.
Are you using a conventional deodorant right now?
I quit using conventional deodorant about 3 weeks ago and started using powder. Then last week I learned about the armpit detox so I’ve been doing that and I also bought some natural deodorant. Haven’t been stinky but very concerned about being obnoxiously, disgustingly smelly.
If you haven’t been stinky then I wouldn’t worry about it. I doubt you’ll all of a sudden get stinky.
Does it make a difference if I have calcium benzonite vs benzonite?
The main ingredient is bentonite clay. You could use another clay or even activated charcoal but I haven’t personally done the detox with any other clay.
So when I have the clay mixture under my arms should it dry or will it remain wet, or caking up? Is that normal?
It will start wet and eventually dry and cake up. It’s completely normal.
I started using native deodorant about three months ago, went through a super sweaty, stinky phase and had break outs then all was well. Then I had my baby. Now I smell TERRIBLE! I never did a detox but have been using natural deodorant consistently for that amount of time. You think maybe it’s hormonal changes??!? My babe is 7 weeks. Any ideas?
Congrats on your new baby!!
Unfortunately this happens to everyone that’s given birth and it’s the hormones adjusting back. It might be like this for a few weeks and maybe even a few months since each body is different. I would try another deodorant and see if it helps.
Did it 20 times over the course of a month and it didn’t make any difference. Still just as smelly and still can’t find a natural deodorant that works 🙁
I’m so sorry to hear that! Body chemistry is a tricky thing sometimes…it’s worked for everyone I know but maybe it could be something you’re eating? I’ve read before that changing your diet can help with the smell but haven’t looked much into it. Maybe you’ll find something helpful for you if you look into it.
Bentonite clay has trace amounts of lead which is known to cause birth defects and other reproductive harm.
Here’s more information as to why I am not concerned about this when it comes to bentonite clay: https://wellnessmama.com/59694/lead-in-bentonite-clay/
However, if you’re not comfortable with it, you don’t have to do this detox. 🙂
Hi! Does this mixture need to be mixed up each time or can I mix more and store it…?
You have to mix it up each time before you’re going to use it but it only takes 1 minute to make.
I purchased my bentonite clay from Bulk Apothecary as I make all of my own personal hygiene items. I’ve been making my own deodorant for over 2 years and I am finally doing a detox. I’ve done two treatments and my BO has gotten worse! Is that normal? Also, the ratio you suggest did not work for me so I added an extra tsp of ACV. Should I use water next time in addition to the 2 tsp of ACV?
Sometimes we have things that need to come out…so it’s normal to be a bit stinkier for the first few applications. If the mixture is too thick you can add a little bit of water.
Can you store the extra in a glass container for use again or do you recommend disposing of the extra each time?? Also, does the clay need to become first in the 20 minutes?
I would discard whatever you’re not using. If you’re following this recipe it should make just enough for one application.
You can leave it on your armpits as long as little as it’s comfortable for you.
Hi
How does it work, when you have hair in the armpits?
Any experience with that?
Thanks.
It works the same way. You can do it with hair in your armpits.
Hi
How does it work, when you have hair in the armpits?
Any experience with that?
Thanks.
It works the same!
I’m trying this with your instructions, 1 tablespoon clay and 2 teaspoons acv, but it’s not looking like your pictures. It’s very dry.
You can dry a tad of water until you get the right consistency.
Thanks much for this tip cause I recently near end of 2022 switched from antiperspirant deodorant (used for years when Degree brand came out) to one without Toxins–Schmidt’s. brand & found pits were a bit smelly. So will try this detox to see if it eliminates that issue as I’m active year round: walking, yard works, etc.
Hey, I avoid using deodrants since I have excema in my underarms. I wash myself twice sometimes thrice a day, just so my underarms stay fresh. My question is that with regular use of this paste, will my underarms stop smelling completely? So that i would never have to use deodorant.
Thank you for giving this solution, hope it can help me out.
Hello, that really depends on your body chemistry and what you eat. This has stopped my armpits from smelling but every person is different. I would give it a shot and see what happens, you have nothing to lose.
Hey, I avoid using deodrants, since I have excema in my underarms. I was myself twice sometimes thrice a day just to keep them fresh, and its a hectic. By regularly using this paste will my underarms stop smelling completely? So that I never have to use deodrant.
Thank you so much for sharing this, hope it helps me out.
Hello Maira, sometimes the smell in our armpits has to do with our body chemistry and what we eat. This detox would help to detox your armpits from anything that’s lingering in there and it should help remove the bad odor.
I am soooo thankful I found this! I switched to natural deodorant about a month ago. I developed a rash and it has been slowly going away and I was just about to ditch it and go back to the deodorant I was using before….today I did my first detox for 10 mins and had no problems. Can’t wait to do it again!
P.S. Do you think it’s safe to have my 12 year old switch and do this detox? She’s been using deodorant (the bad kind) since she was 9.
Yaaay! I’m so happy it’s working. Keep in mind that since natural deodorants don’t have antiperspirant ingredients (which are toxic) you might have to reapply once or twice.
As far as your daughter, I would just have her use a natural deodorant from now on. Kids bodies are amazing and I bet her own body would detox her armpits pretty fast.
Going to try this right now! Could i make a large batch ahead of time, or do I need to make it fresh each time I detox?
I always make a fresh one right before I use it since it takes like 1 minute. I have never tried to make a big batch – sorry!
Neither diatomacious earth nor activated charcoal will do what bentonite clay can do. It simply “pulls” things out of your body. The famous naturopath, Dr Christopher used bentonite clay in his colon cleanse (along with activated charcoal) years ago. However, diatomacious earth can take the place of baking soda (in homemade deodorants) for people with sensitive skin. And this recipe would benefit from the addition of activated charcoal.
Love the site.
Hello! Can I do this while breastfeeding?
Hi! Anything you do breastfeeding should be run by your doctor first so I would ask.
That being said, I did this many times while breastfeeding my toddler. I would do it right after a nursing session since it would be several hours before she nursed again.
6/21/18- Do you think this recipe could work in the same way if we also apply it to the soles of our feet where our pores are larger? I’m thinking like why not try to pull out more toxins through our feet as well. What are your thoughts? Thank you!
Oh I have never thought of doing that but I think you’re onto something here. I’m going to research more about this!
Would this help for people with boils under their armpits? My daughter gets them and thought this could help.
I honestly don’t know since I haven’t researched about boils under armpits. Sorry!
I like the idea of detoxing, since I have been using antiperspirants for decades! I have noticed that my armpits have become stained also…will detoxing help with that? Here’s hoping!
I’m not sure but let us know how it goes for you!
I tried natural deodorant and I was excited initially. Then my arm pits started turning black. I have never had any discoloration before. The deodorant was more expensive and I was okay with that but the results didn’t measure up. I never heard about detoxing our arm pits. After reading this article, I am willing to give natural deodorant another try. First thing will be to detox first. I wonder if incorporating a few fasting days will help.
Thank you for this information and I’m looking forward to making this arm pit mask. Happy Pits!!!
I have been going through menopause for the last few years. About a year or more ago my usual deodorant was not effective, but also the smell was very different and much worse. I tried different ones and found that Lume worked the best but still did not last long. I thought it was because of menopause then ran across this. I am going to try this and hope for the best but wanted to know your opinion on Lume?
I don’t have any feedback on Lume but I have been using islanddeodorant.com for a few years now and love it! It works great and I live at the beach!
Thank you for this article. My only complaint is the ads are so big I only have an inch side to read everything. I don’t know if you have any control over this but it makes it a bit irritating trying to read with such a little space.
Thanks for the feedback. I’ll look into this.