Underarm Detox: Is It Effective for Reducing Body Odor?

Underarm Detox: Is It Effective for Reducing Body Odor?
Illustration of underarm odor. Credit: Freepik

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Body odor can affect your self-esteem and cause discomfort. Many methods have been used to combat body odor, particularly underarm odor, including the popular underarm detox. But what exactly is underarm detox, and does it effectively help reduce underarm odor? Let’s dive into this topic.

 

What is Underarm Detox?

Underarms are a common source of body odor, which can cause self-consciousness. When sweat mixes with bacteria in the underarm area, it can create an unpleasant smell. To address this, some people turn to underarm detox or underarm masks to help reduce body odor.

Underarm detox involves applying a mask to the underarm area for about 15 minutes. This mask can be made using simple ingredients such as baking soda, apple cider vinegar, or body scrubs. The process is simple: apply the mask mixture to your underarms, leave it on for 15 minutes, and then rinse it off with warm or cold water using a washcloth.

This method is believed to help cleanse the armpits of harmful chemicals that may have accumulated from previous deodorant or antiperspirant use.

 

Benefits of Underarm Detox

Some people claim various benefits of underarm detox, including:

Increasing the effectiveness of natural deodorants

Many people use underarm detox to make switching from aluminum-based antiperspirants to natural deodorants (such as baking soda) easier. However, there is no scientific proof that underarm detox actually reduces body odor or enhances the effectiveness of natural deodorants.

Removing deodorant or antiperspirant residue

Antiperspirants work by blocking sweat glands, preventing sweat from being released. While they don’t directly absorb into the skin, antiperspirants contain irritants like fragrances and alcohol. Experts suggest that the best way to remove antiperspirant buildup is to wash with soap and water or use a washcloth, rather than relying on detox masks.

Cleansing the body of toxins

Some people believe that underarm detox can remove chemicals thought to be linked to cancer from products used in the underarm area. However, experts note that the body’s natural systems, such as the kidneys, liver, and lymph nodes, are responsible for detoxification—not masks or other external treatments.

 

Is Underarm Detox Effective?

There is no strong scientific evidence to support the idea that underarm detox can remove toxins from the body. Detoxification is primarily carried out by internal organs like the kidneys and liver, not through topical applications like detox masks.

If your goal is to reduce body odor through underarm detox, it's important to consider the potential risks of skin irritation. For example, while apple cider vinegar may help reduce body odor, it can irritate the skin if not properly diluted. Experts also caution that underarm detox may not effectively address body odor issues.

 

While underarm detox is often marketed as a way to remove toxins and reduce odor, research does not support these claims. If body odor or skin issues persist, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider. You can also use the consultation feature on the Ai Care app, available on both the App Store and Play Store.

 

Looking for more information about other diseases? Click here!

 

Writer : Ratih AI Care
Editor :
  • dr Hanifa Rahma
Last Updated : Friday, 7 February 2025 | 14:42

Ferreira, M (2022). Do Armpit Detoxes Work?. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/armpit-detox

Ferchak, D. (2023). Everything you need to know about armpit detox. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319624

Cleveland Clinic. (2022). Armpit Detox: Does It Really Work?. Available from:  https://health.clevelandclinic.org/armpit-detox