How to Control Underarm Odor Without Aluminum Zirconium
Aluminum zirconium, an ingredient in many commercial antiperspirants, effectively combats underarm odor and usually causes less irritation than other common deodorant ingredients. You may be sensitive to this substance, however, or wish to avoid it for other reasons. In fact, you don't need to rely on commercial antiperspirants to fight underarm odor--there are many alternatives to these antiperspirants. Several common substances, from herbs to products in your kitchen or medicine cabinet, can be effective for controlling underarm odor and are safe to use. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Antibacterial soap
- Hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar
- Talcum powder or herbal deodorant stick
Instructions
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Use antibacterial soap on your underarms at least every day. Bacteria are the main source of odor--fighting the bacteria helps fight the odor.
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Use hydrogen peroxide after you've washed your underarms. Health911.com suggests placing 1 tsp of hydrogen peroxide (3 percent--the strength you'll find at a drug store) in a glass of water. Wash your underarms with this solution and allow it to air dry. An alternative is white vinegar--apply this straight (undiluted) with a cotton ball or piece of toilet paper directly to the underarms.
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Apply a scented talcum powder or an herbal deodorant to your underarms after the peroxide or vinegar has dried. Many retailers sell all-natural deodorant sticks.
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Wear clothing that "breathes." Avoid tight-fitting synthetics in favor of loose cotton fabrics. The faster sweat can evaporate, the less odor there will be.
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Tips & Warnings
Hyperhidrosisweb.com suggests applying baking soda directly to the underarms as one remedy. Baking soda is a natural odor absorber.
Remedies make work better for some people than for others--you may need to experiment a little with different deodorants and home remedies until you find the right one for your situation.
Clothing can harbor underarm odor, even after it has been washed. Wash sweaty clothing in good detergent and a cupful of baking soda (or vinegar) to deodorize them more effectively.
