picture of charcoal soap

Underarm Care: Making a Clean Switch

Switching from aluminum-based antiperspirants to natural deodorants is a unique experience for each person. As much as we would love for everyone to be able to pick up a bottle, run a few swipes and be on their merry way to a healthier body, for some people, it might take a bit more effort. Armpits are tricky like that!

Switching from antiperspirants

Even though many encounter no issues, those affected might experience a temporary increase in sweating and more pungent body odor (source). During this phase, your body begins purging itself of dead skin cells and other particles that have built up over the years. This can last as little as one week and generally not more than a few months.

At the first sign of this adjustment period, we find that some new users return to aluminum-based antiperspirants. We wish that weren't the case. While we cannot guarantee that making the switch will go smoothly for everyone, we feel strongly that with a bit of help, choosing a natural deodorant designed to work in harmony with your body is an approach whose benefits far outweigh any potential drawbacks.

healthy underarms

We also believe that sweating is good for your body and is another way of removing certain heavy metals from your body (source, source). Please note that an uncommon excessive sweating or body odor can reoccur if a person's lifestyle changes, such as diet, medication, or hormonal changes.

Develop a simple daily routine

Following a simple routine that includes proper cleansing and exfoliation can help speed up the adjustment period and get you on your way to enjoying natural deodorants' benefits. Remember that this might vary from person to person and is not the same as an underarm irritation or rash. Visit Irritation and Rashes to learn more.

To help make the adjustment period easier, we have created a daily routine kit, CLEANSE + DETOX Daily Underarm Care™, which, combined with the tips below, can significantly improve the chances of a successful transition.

Adjustment period 

To ease the transition, follow these simple tips during your switch to natural deodorants:

  1. Exercise to help sweat out the toxins (source).

  2. Keep hydrated throughout the day.

  3. Wear loose-fitting clothes made of natural fibers (cotton and linen are best).

  4. Promote an alkaline body environment by consuming deep green, leafy vegetables, fresh fruit, nuts, and legumes.

  5. If you shave your underarms, shave at night and apply deodorant in the morning to avoid aggravating the skin.

  6. Remind yourself that a bit of sweat is good for you.

  7. Use a gentle exfoliator, like TIME TO EXFOLIATE Charcoal Scrub, to help remove dead skin build-up.

  8. Remember, this temporary adjustment period is not the same as irritation or rash.

 

These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. For any medical concern, you should consult with an appropriately-licensed physician or other healthcare worker. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Full Medical Disclaimer.