Transitioning to a nontoxic lifestyle means signing yourself up for a lot of vulnerable moments.
Maybe you’ll go head-to-head with your fragrance-happy aunt—begging her not to use plug-in air fresheners around the kids.
Or you’ll admit to your vegan bestie that you now use beef tallow for skincare.
But none of these cringe-worthy moments compare to your first two weeks without conventional deodorant.
Seriously, around here we consider starting your natural deodorant journey the initiation into the nontoxic community.
Because it’s where most people draw the line.
Which is a shame, since aluminum-filled deodorant is a major barrier to sweating (an important detox pathway).
Your first few weeks using natural deodorant builds character. It reveals who your true friends are … and maybe it’s an invitation for more regular showers.
While it’s a challenge, it is possible to keep the smell at bay and make a comfortable transition that pays off in the long run. (Think: no more chemicals applied straight to your pits.)
We’ve made the switch, and we believe you can too.
What Is the Deodorant Detox Phase?
When switching to natural deodorant, a lot of people go through something called the detox phase. This is a period of four to six weeks when body odor becomes more … obvious.
But there’s a good reason for this. It’s a time for your body to release decades' worth of aluminum, hormone disruptors, and other toxins that hid in your old deodorant stick.
Not to worry. The detox phase is temporary, and your body will eventually find homeostasis with your natural deodorant.
Resources like our armpit detox recipe can help expedite that process. Plus, there are a lot of resources available to help you manage any extra B.O.
When to Consider an Armpit Detox
Who needs an armpit detox? Everyone.
While an armpit detox is particularly helpful for those transitioning to natural deodorant, this resource can be used anytime…
When you’re stressed out. Stress sweat is known to smell worse than regular sweat. An armpit detox is a self-care habit that will pay off during your next corporate meeting.
If you need a bit of a refresh. Recent breakup? Trying to detox more often? An armpit detox is an easy way to support your body during big changes.
Before or after a sports season. If you’re anticipating a few weeks of physical activity, prep with an armpit detox—so your natural deodorant doesn’t have to do all the heavy lifting.
Before starting a new job. Start those big moments on the right foot—stink-free.
If you’re doing intense lymphatic work. Lymphatic drainage and lymphatic massages may push toxins out via your armpits. While your body flushes toxins, an armpit detox may be exactly what you need to keep the stink under control.
Aside from these factors, we recommend completing a deodorant detox every 3-6 months for maintenance.
Smell Like Yourself Again with This Simple Armpit Detox Recipe
Theoretically, you can buy an armpit detox kit online. But making your own with our foolproof armpit detox recipe is simple and inexpensive.
Ingredients:
- 1 Tablespoon of bentonite clay or kaolin clay
- 1 Tablespoon of activated charcoal
- 2 Tablespoons of water
How to Make It:
Gently mix the dry ingredients together, then add your water and stir.
Modifications:
If you’re missing a clay or charcoal ingredient, just two tablespoons of whatever detox agent you have (charcoal, bentonite clay, or kaolin clay) should work. The recipe relies on a 1:1 ratio of detox powder to liquid.
Add-Ins:
Essential oils can add a gentle scent and help control bacteria. We like high-quality frankincense essential oil for this. Make sure to do a spot test to ensure your underarms aren’t sensitive to the oils.
How to Use It:
Gently apply the detox mask to your clean armpits and wait until it dries. Once dry, use a wet towel to wipe your armpits clean. Follow up with a shower, preferably with nontoxic soap (so you’re not adding more chemicals to your freshly detoxed pits). Repeat every 3-6 months. Or, every four days while actively in the detox phase.
More Deodorant Detox Hacks
Trial and error isn’t the route you want to take when it comes to body odor (trust us).
These detox hacks are used by our community and help to fend off unwanted scents as you detox conventional deodorant.
Wipe Your Armpits Clean Before Applying Natural Deodorant
Deodorant buildup can breed bacteria. That’s why we always recommend wiping your armpits clean before each application. You can use a warm washcloth or homemade body wipe to do this.
While keeping your armpits hair-free is a personal choice, shaving is another helpful way to eliminate B.O. during the detox phase. Excess hair creates an environment that’s welcoming to bacteria, which means more stink.
Support Your Body’s Natural Detox Pathways
The people who don’t stink during the deodorant detox phase are usually the people with really healthy detox pathways. This means their bodies easily filter out excess toxins from their environment.
If you’re not one of these lucky people, it may be time to open your detox pathways. Try lymphatic drainage (dry brushing or a massage), visit a sauna, work on your liver health, and pay attention to mitochondria function. These small efforts can help the detox phase go by faster—while boosting your overall health at the same time.
Be Mindful of Your Diet
Our Western diet is full of sugar and processed foods—and this may contribute to excess body odor. Changing your diet can help decrease stink and increase your chances of better detox.
Especially during the detox phase, we recommend avoiding pungent foods—and hydrating with extra electrolytes, minerals, and water to flush out toxins.
After Trying Dozens, Here’s the Recipe That Creates the Best Natural Deodorant
Three ingredients…
Grass-fed tallow, arrowroot powder, and magnesium hydroxide.
This winning combination soaks up excess body odor and naturally detoxes the armpits—all while providing nourishment to your skin. We added magnesium hydroxide for its ability to eliminate odor-causing bacteria and balance your body’s natural pH.