Smelly armpits aren't caused by sweat. People who sweated a lot don't always stink. Sweat by itself doesn’t smell, but when sweat mixes with certain bacteria in the armpits, and in other parts of the body, it creates an odoriferous compound. So in reality, it’s the bacteria that make you stink, not the sweat. Sweat alone is a good thing, made up mostly of salt and water; it’s the bacteria that we need to focus on if we don't want to smell bad. The bacteria that breaks down sweat form thiaalcohols, which can create a pungent smell similar to sulfur or onions. They're very stinky.
Most deodorants on the market aren’t effective because they block sweat glands entirely or they mask the odor with strong fragrances. Many of these deodorants can also be unhealthy for the body because if the body can’t sweat, it’s unable to expel toxins. In fact, a major exit route of the body is cut off. Additionally, strong fragrances are also made with phthalates, a potential human carcinogen. Phthalates may also cause reproductive issues. They’re have also been some links to birth defects as well as lower or damaged sperm counts.
According to the study findings, the most potently stinky compound is caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus hominis. The most effective deodorants would stop odor by inhibiting thiaalchohols from forming in the first place. But in the mean time, the best option is the crystal deodorant stone, which works directly on the bacteria in the armpit. Crystal deodorant stones work by wetting the stone and then applying it to the armpit. They contain a natural anti-microbial agent called potassium alum. The agent inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria. The crystal adjusts the pH on your skin so bacteria can’t form. What’s more, crystal deodorant stones have no added chemicals or fragrances, which is a good thing considering the underarm sweat glands are a direct entrance into the body. The stones also allow your body to sweat rather than just cutting off the sweat glands completely. And they don’t mask odor, they just work on the bacteria that causes it.
This DIY deodorant uses a variety of natural ingredients that are moisturizing for the skin and have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Baking soda is a common ingredient in natural deodorants. This age-old, multi-purpose product is commonly used in cooking, cleaning, and odor prevention.
Its ability to absorb odor makes it an effective additive in a DIY deodorant to help you feel fresh and odor-free longer. Baking soda isn't for everyone though, as it may irritate sensitive skin and has a tendency to leave skin feeling dry. No need to worry because a natural, homemade deodorant can still be effective without baking soda. There are a number of alternative ingredients that can be added to deodorant in place of baking soda, including apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, or witch hazel.
Ingredients
1/4 cup shea butter
2 tablespoons coconut oil
3 tablespoons beeswax pellets
3 tablespoons baking soda
2 tablespoons arrowroot flour starch
20 drops lavender essential oil
10 drops tea tree essential oil
Steps
Prepare a double boiler with the bottom pot about 1/4 full with water.
Bring the water to a gentle boil over medium heat and then add the shea butter and coconut oil to the top pot, stirring occasionally.
Once the shea butter and coconut oil have melted, add the beeswax and stir frequently until all the ingredients are liquid.
Remove the bowl from heat and quickly add the baking soda and the arrowroot flour, mixing everything together.
Add in the essential oils and then combine all of the ingredients.
Pour the mixture into a mason jar. The deodorant will solidify as it cools.
For application, scoop a small amount of the deodorant from the jar, rub between your fingers, and apply to your armpits as needed.
Crystal Crystal deodorant is made from minerals and salts found in nature.
How to make the switch and use it daily: There is the oft-cited "detox" period of switching to natural deodorants where you may sweat or smell a bit more than you would otherwise,,but many people never go through this period at all. If you do find your body adjusting to the new product, it's not cause for concern. Not to mention, your skin and body often go through temporary changes when you introduce a new product (think acne-purging from AHAs, flaking from retinol, or oiliness from sulfate-free shampoos), so it's not necessarily out of reason to suggest that your body might go through a temporary change with a new deodorant. If you can, power through it. As for the daily application, here's how you should apply most kinds of crystals:
Wash your armpits or shower as usual. Crystal deodorants need to be applied to clean skin.
Lightly dampen your armpits, as the crystal needs water to spread onto the skin. Some types you will need to wet the rock directly—follow instructions as indicated.
Rub the crystal on each armpit several times, until you can feel it imparting a film.
Let the deodorant dry for a few minutes—do not put clothing over it until it is dry as you will just wipe it off.
Wash your hands and carry about as usual.
If you need to reapply it between showers, rub your skin with alcohol. Take a cotton ball dipped in alcohol and rub it over the skin where you want to apply it. This will kill the bacteria and create a sterile place to apply your crystal deodorant