Do We Need to Do an Underarm Detox?
- When we feel bad body odor, we usually smell our armpits. Yes, armpits can indeed be a source of body odor.
Because of this, many people try to get rid of the smell, one of which is by "detoxifying" the armpits using a mask made from ingredients such as charcoal and apple cider vinegar. These ingredients are believed to help eliminate toxins and unclog pores. But do we need to detox to get odor-free armpits?
Dermatologist Amy Kassouf, MD, explains what underarm detoxification is and whether we need to do it.
What is underarm detox ?
Underarm detoxification is the use of a mask that is applied to the armpits for approximately 15 minutes. Masks can be made at home with common household ingredients such as baking soda and cornstarch, or buy ready-made as some beauty brands offer their own masks or scrubs.
When wearing it, we must keep our arms raised until the mask dries, then rinse with water, either using a warm washcloth or taking a shower.
What is the function of underarm detox?
When we change deodorant, the body needs time to adjust to the ingredients. This can affect the amount and type of bacteria present in the armpits, so you may notice a stronger body odor at first. Many people who switch from aluminum deodorant to natural deodorant do a detox to help with the transition, and claim that detoxing can help the natural deodorant work better.
Armpit detox fans also say that this treatment can extract toxins through the sweat glands in the armpits, making them healthier and smelling better. But the reality is not that simple, said Dr. Kassouf.
“There is no scientifically proven reason to detox,” he says.
And, remember that our liver and kidneys are designed to eliminate harmful chemicals, while sweat, urine, and bowel movements also remove toxins from the body.
Underarm detox problem
Although most of the ingredients used in underarm detoxification are natural, irritation can occur from abrasive chemicals or strong bases and acids.
“Generally, ingredients like clay and apple cider vinegar are not harmful,” says Dr. Kassouf. “Clay can bind to unwanted molecules in the skin. Apple cider vinegar, which is essentially acetic acid, can help keep the pH low, thereby preventing the growth of unwanted bacteria. But too much or too much concentration of any one product can cause irritation.”
So, it is important to pay attention to what we apply to the underarms. For example, lime juice may seem like a safe choice.
"But fresh lime juice can cause burns if part of the skin is irritated or has just been shaved," said Dr. Kassouf. "This ingredient does contain citric acid which can be a natural skin exfoliant and also keeps the pH lower."
Natural vs. deodorant aluminum deodorant
If you feel that your armpits are causing body odor, what products can you use? “Deodorant is simply a detergent or fragrance that helps reduce bacteria and the odor they produce. "Antiperspirants contain aluminum, which can chemically shut down sweat glands to reduce moisture production," explains Dr. Kassouf.
“Meanwhile, natural products rarely contain antiperspirants and are usually only used as ingredients to reduce or cover odors. Which one you choose depends on your individual preferences."
Regarding concerns that aluminum deodorant could cause cancer, Dr. Dr. Kassouf says, “There is a lot of research showing that there is no cancer link to aluminum deodorant, although there are a lot of concerns,” says Dr. Kassouf. Kassouf.
And if we switch from aluminum deodorant to natural deodorant, we need to give the body time to adjust to the change in ingredients.
Research shows that those who use regular antiperspirants or deodorants have fewer Staphylococci microbes than those who don't. And more Staphylococci microbes were found in those who did not use sweat-blocking antiperspirants.
When to see a doctor
“There are medical conditions that can increase sweating and change the body's flora such as diabetes, infection, or thyroid disorders,” says Dr. Kassouf. “If you suddenly notice a significant difference, it's time to see a doctor.”
The doctor can discuss options such as clinical-strength antiperspirants, Botox, or topical glycopyrronium wipes.
How to maintain healthy underarms
“Healthy skin care is the best care for underarm skin,” says Dr. Kassouf. Here are some tips on how to keep your underarms healthy.
Watch what you eat. “There are many spices and other molecules in the foods we eat that can cause sweating and change odor,” says Dr. Kassouf.
Shower after exercise. “This can help remove sweat and bacteria and help keep all skin folds clean and dry to help minimize odor,” he says.
Wash your armpits regularly. “Pores can become clogged due to sticky or heavy products that cause dead skin cells and oil in hair follicles to get stuck,” she adds. “Make sure you wash regularly with a gentle, foaming cleanser to remove product residue.”
While trying an underarm detox likely won't do any harm, consider skipping the clay mask as it won't help much. “All it takes is good skin care,” says Dr. Kassouf. “Aggressive treatment should no longer be necessary.”