Try This Hack If Deodorants Give You Underarm Boils

Few things are more frustrating than needing deodorant to stay odor-free and yet reacting to said deodorant. If you get underarm boils or pimples after using even the mildest deodorants, Healthline explains that this could be because you are allergic to one or more of the chemicals commonly found in deodorants. These chemicals include fragrance, aluminum, parabens, and propylene glycol.

Your allergy could also be because our underarms are wet and hotter than other parts of our bodies, making it easier for bacteria to thrive. As a result, many people find that their underarms have an unpleasant smell, even right after their baths. This can be embarrassing and frustrating, especially if you shower twice daily. The slightest exercise could leave you wondering, "Why do my armpits smell like onions?"

Most people who experience this have oily and sensitive skin, but even dry-skinned people can be allergic to chemical deodorant. If you've given up on deodorants because of underarm boils, we're really excited to share this hack we've tested: a 100% organic alternative that costs less than regular deodorant.

To get started, you'll need a lemon or lime and a knife. The aim is to get the juice of these fruits into your armpits for 30 minutes before washing it off. There are a couple of ways you could do this. The easiest is to half the fruit, stab it a few times with a fork, and rub it in your pits. The second is expressing the juice and using a spray bottle, which might be messier.

The good news about this hack is that we can confirm it works, and science can explain why. According to a 2008 study published in the Journal of Endourology, lime and lemon contain citric acid, which can tighten the skin and reduce sweating. These fruits also contain antimicrobial properties which kill or stop the growth of bacteria, making them highly effective in removing body odor.

It's worth noting that lemon and limes do not work like deodorants. Deodorants contain aluminum compounds, which stop sweat from reaching the surface by blocking sweat ducts. They also combat odors by using fragrances. The real reason you should use a natural deodorant is that chemical alternatives only offer short-term solutions to body odor. Natural deodorants are safer, eco-friendly, and chemical-free alternatives. In addition, several studies, such as a 2009 report published in the breast cancer research journal, link chemical deodorants to breast cancer. Since natural deodorants are organic, you don't have to worry about letting toxins into your system.

Lemon and lime are natural products, but may not be safe for everyone to use. However, if you've had contact with these fruits without issues, you aren't likely to encounter any issues. To be on the safe side, be sure to patch test. Try rubbing raw lemon juice on your thighs and underarms close to your armpit. You're good to go if you have no reactions after two hours.

It's also important to wait two to three days after shaving to use limes or lemons. Be sure to wash your pits first so that you have a clean base to start with. One factor to consider is that lemons and limes may lighten your armpits. Citric acid is a natural lightening agent that can reduce melanin production. This can be a solid advantage if you want to lighten your darkened armpits naturally. 

Finally, check your armpits for injuries and openings before using homemade deodorants on your armpits. If you have a cut, these ingredients can irritate, sting, and even damage your tissues, slowing the healing process. If you patch test without any issues, you'll be pleased to know that you only need to apply this deodorant once a day. Set a reminder for 30 minutes before your bath or shower, so you can wash it off easily and thoroughly.