This Is Why You Should Be Detoxing Your Armpits

Many self-care enthusiasts have hopped on the lymphatic drainage train in hopes that it would help remove toxins from their systems. As the importance of natural self-care products continues to become common knowledge, many have turned their attention toward one of the biggest lymphatic centers in the body — the armpit. Considering that this area of the body is a magnet for bacteria, it's worth considering doing a detox and choosing your products with care.

According to Shape, the idea of an armpit detox revolves around this area's function. A lymphatic center with multiple nodes, your underarms also usually house tons of synthetic products that block your pores to avoid leaving perspiration or odor. Over time, this buildup can continue to lay on your skin long after you've showered. Since this lymphatic center acts as a hub for the system, it plays a pivotal role in the healthy elimination of toxins. By detoxing from deodorant residue and trace metals underneath this area, you may be able to help it function properly. Mona Gohara, M.D., explains to the outlet, "An armpit detox allows the microbiome in the armpit to recalibrate to a normal state. It's a break from products."

In addition to boasting benefits like a better-functioning lymphatic system, an armpit detox may even lead to less sweat and odor, the outlet notes. Medical News Today also explains that a body of research indicates that this type of detox can strengthen immunity and even decrease the risk of cancer. To perform a detox, it starts with a break from traditional products, perhaps a shift towards natural deodorants, and a mask that's said to help break down these particles.

Over the years, adding more and more deodorant to this area can impact its ability to function, while increasing bacteria production. The high levels of bacteria can linger and cause odor after years of using synthetic products, Medical News Today contends, and detoxing your pits can make a big difference. Plus, the aluminum in these products clogs pores and can be difficult to remove even with soap and warm water. By using an armpit mask, you can fully remove this source of buildup and reveal clean skin with a healthier microbiome.

Start by finding an aluminum-free deodorant to make your switch away from synthetics. From here, you can create an armpit mask at home with just three ingredients. The outlet notes that the detoxifying properties of bentonite clay, apple cider vinegar, and water will do the trick. Healthy and Natural World recommends combining a tablespoon of the clay with one tablespoon of water and ACV each. Mix them together until it forms a paste, then apply to your underarms to begin the detoxification process. 

Medical News Today suggests starting by letting the paste sit for a few minutes at a time, working your way up to 20, if it feels comfortable. If you find your skin slightly red, that's normal, but if there's irritation or intense discomfort, stop using it immediately. Once you notice a decline in the amount that you sweat or the odor, you can decrease use to whenever you feel you need a detox.