Armpit detoxification can help the body rid itself of toxins that have built up on the skin. It may also help to reduce the capacity of sweat glands and the amount of odor they produce.
Moreover, some research indicates armpit detox can boost the immune system and decrease cancer risk. Conventional deodorants and antiperspirants are absorbed through the skin, and after many years of using these products, a lot of chemical residues have built up on a person’s skin.
This is where an armpit detox can help. When someone stops using chemical deodorants and antiperspirants, toxins start to leave the body, resulting in an armpit detox.
Fast facts on armpit detox:
The armpits are the body’s entry and exit points.
Deodorants are designed to mask the smell of excess bacteria from sweating. Antiperspirants are designed to reduce sweating. The detox process may cause skin problems, excess sweating, and odour.
Reasons to do an armpit detox
Along with wanting to limit exposure to chemicals and reduce the risk of developing breast cancer, there are other potential reasons why a person might want to detoxify their armpits.
People who switch over to natural odour-fighting alternatives tend to experience rashes, excessive sweating and smell while transitioning. Individuals who have used standard deodorants and antiperspirants for years are likely to have produced excess bad bacteria in the armpit, which increases odour and causes more sweating.
Detox helps get the bacteria back in balance resulting in a more natural smell.
Antiperspirants and deodorants leave a sticky buildup under the armpits, which is hard to wash even with soap. Aluminum used in these products clogs pores under the arms. An armpit detox may help pull out some of the chemicals that have built up in the armpits.
Getting sick often and having swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits are both signs the lymphatic system is struggling to rid the body of chemicals from antiperspirants and deodorants.
How to do an armpit detox
Armpit detox is relatively straightforward and involves three ingredients, some of which people may already have in their homes.
A simple armpit detox includes the following, according to the Healthy and Natural World website: 1 tablespoon bentonite clay; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (unfiltered works best); 1-2 tablespoons water.
Mix all ingredients in a glass bowl with a non-metal utensil. The thickness should be similar to that of yoghurt. Spread the mixture in an even layer under each armpit. Leave the mixture on for a few minutes for the first few times, then slowly increase the time to no longer than 20 minutes. Wash the mixture off the armpits with warm water.
If the armpits turn red, do not worry, as this is quite normal and harmless. However, if anyone experiences any other reactions to the clay, wash the mixture off immediately.
Repeat the detoxification daily until there is no odor in the armpits or until natural deodorants no longer irritate the skin.
People should be aware that natural deodorants may also contain some harmful chemicals. Some people wanting to use a natural product might consider making their own deodorants. Recipes are available on a variety of websites that promote natural remedies.