The Benefits and Effectiveness of Underarm Detox

 

When we think of detoxing, our minds often jump to cleansing diets or liver flushes. However, one area of detoxification that’s gaining popularity is the underarm detox. For those transitioning to natural deodorants, or simply looking to improve their overall skin health, an underarm detox can be an effective and beneficial practice.

What is an Underarm Detox?

An underarm detox is a process designed to draw out impurities, toxins, and residues from conventional deodorants or antiperspirants that might be clogging your sweat glands. Traditional antiperspirants often contain ingredients like aluminum, parabens, and artificial fragrances, which can create a barrier on the skin and potentially disrupt the body’s natural detoxification process.

The idea behind an underarm detox is to reset the armpit area, allowing it to breathe freely and function as intended. This is particularly useful for individuals who are making the switch to natural deodorants, which do not prevent sweating but instead neutralize odor through natural ingredients.

Why Consider an Underarm Detox?

 Easier Transition to Natural Deodorants

Switching from conventional antiperspirants to natural deodorants can sometimes be accompanied by a brief period of increased odour or sweating. This happens because your body is adjusting to the absence of chemicals like aluminum, which block the sweat glands. An underarm detox can help speed up this transition by clearing out built-up toxins and allowing your natural deodorant to work more effectively.

 Reduction in Body Odor

Body odour is often caused by bacteria breaking down sweat on your skin. If your underarms are clogged with toxins and residue from conventional deodorants, it can exacerbate the smell. By detoxing your underarms, you create a cleaner slate, reducing the presence of bacteria and ultimately leading to less odour.

 Improved Skin Health

The skin under your arms is delicate and can easily become irritated, especially if it’s clogged with synthetic ingredients from conventional products. An underarm detox can help soothe irritation, reduce redness, and promote healthier skin overall. The detox process encourages natural exfoliation, removing dead skin cells and impurities that may be trapped under the surface.

                   

 Potential Health Benefits

While the research is ongoing, there is some concern that the regular use of aluminum-based antiperspirants may be linked to health issues like breast cancer or Alzheimer’s disease. Although these connections are not conclusively proven, many people prefer to err on the side of caution. Detoxing your underarms and switching to natural deodorants can reduce your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.

How to Perform an Underarm Detox

There are several methods to perform an underarm detox, ranging from simple DIY remedies to store-bought detox masks. Here’s a basic DIY approach:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of bentonite clay
• 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar
• 1-2 teaspoons of water

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the bentonite clay with apple cider vinegar and water until you get a smooth paste.
2. Apply an even layer of the paste to your underarms, ensuring full coverage.
3. Leave the detox mask on for 10-20 minutes. If you feel any discomfort or irritation, rinse it off immediately.
4. Rinse the mask off with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel.
5. Repeat the process daily or every few days for a week or until you notice improvements.

For a more enhanced armpit detox, order from our website at MalyNature. This armpit detox includes additional ingredients such as manuka honey and lemon essential oil that help with pH balancing, clarifying and keeping the armpits nourished. Check out my YouTube video for a tutorial on the benefits and how to use an underarm detox. 

Click Here

What to Expect During an Underarm Detox

It’s important to note that your body may go through an adjustment period during an underarm detox. Some people experience increased sweating or stronger body odour as their body releases toxins. This is completely normal and usually temporary. After a few days, most people notice a reduction in odour and a more balanced level of sweating.

An underarm detox can be a highly effective way to improve your overall skin health, reduce body odour, and ease the transition to natural deodorants. By removing toxins and impurities, you allow your body to function as it was intended, promoting a healthier and more natural lifestyle. Whether you’re making the switch to natural deodorants or simply looking to refresh your skincare routine, an underarm detox is a simple and beneficial step to consider.

Have you ever tried an underarm detox or natural deodorant? Were they effective?

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Three Butter Body Cream by MalyNature- A Touch Of Luxury

Body creams are an excellent addition to any skincare routine. Though perfect for normal to oily skin types, they can be equally beneficial and enjoyable for anyone. They are a unique cross between body butters and lotions, in that, they are generally thicker than a regular lotion consistency, yet they absorb into the skin at a much faster rate than body butters. This is attributed to the addition of water soluble ingredients and humectants that are not included in body butters, and still have a higher quantity of butters and oils than lotions.

Image of Body Cream

My first encounter with making a body cream happened one fall when I noticed that with the change in temperature my skin was very dry. I excitedly made a body butter with predominantly cocoa butter and applied it after my shower. To my disappointment, it did not work as I hoped as the oils took a while to penetrate the skin, I did not feel that moisturizing experience I wanted, and it felt a bit greasy. From my experience with making lotions, I had the idea to see if I could make the body butter more conditioning. The thicker consistency was still important to me. I needed something that would retain the moisture in my skin. I sat and wrote a recipe for what I now call our body cream, which included some of the same body butter I had made. The end result was exactly what I hoped to achieve initially. It was a game changer for me! My skin felt renewed and I did not have dry skin issues for the rest of that fall and winter. 

Image by Rodger Shija from Pixabay

I reworked the recipe to make it more official and added it to my line of products on my website. I had about four (4) different types, each as a different recipe. See previous blog here.  However, as my experience with making skincare products developed and I gained more exposure to different ingredients, I have revamped the recipe and since last year, have added the new formulation to the website. The new formulation still has most of the same ingredients and I have essentially merged elements from each of the four recipes to make one formulation with different fragrances. This was a better and more cost and time effective business decision for me. It is by far, a more superior product than before also, so you can just imagine how amazing it is, as the others were pretty good before.  

Did you watch the video on how I make our three (3) butter whipped body cream? Check it out here.

The main ingredient in our body creams is Aloe Vera. Aloe Vera Aloe vera is an excellent natural moisturizer that hydrates the skin without leaving it greasy. It has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe dry, itchy, irritated skin, as well as some skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis,  accelerate wound healing, and reduce redness. Rich in antioxidants, aloe vera helps improve skin elasticity, diminish wrinkles, and promote collagen production. Aloe vera's antibacterial properties make it effective in treating acne, reducing inflammation, and lightening blemishes. It is very useful for sunburns and certain injuries. Aloe Vera forms part of the water phase in our body creams and is accompanied by humectants, such as glycerine which acts as a powerful humectant, attracting moisture to the skin and helping to maintain hydration levels, which keeps the skin soft and supple. It has soothing properties that calm irritation and inflammation, while also forming a protective barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss and strengthen the skin's natural barrier. Glycerin improves skin elasticity and smoothness, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It enhances overall skin texture, making it more even-toned and resilient.

Image by Rosina-Schneider from Pixabay

In the oil phase, butters, oils, emulsifiers and other nourishing ingredients are combined. Each ingredient in this phase offer their own element to the feel and effectiveness of this product to moisturize the skin. We made it extra special by including not just one, but three (3) butters. Butters are rich in fatty acids which is key to having healthy looking skin. 

Mango butter hydrates the skin and is rich in Vitamins E & C which aids with collagen production and provides antioxidants to protect the skin from the elements, signs of aging and sun damage. 

The fat in Cocoa Butter is said to provide a protective barrier to the skin that prevents it from drying out. It is said to have the ability to reduce the appearance of dark spots and blemishes from the skin, as well as soothe certain skin irritations related to eczema and dermatitis. It eases itching and speeds up healing after a flare-up. 

In addition to Mango and Cocoa Butters, MalyNature's Body Creams include Coffee Butter which offers a luxurious texture to the cream. It smells amazing, although it does not carry through in the final product. So, not to worry, you won't be walking around the office smelling like you just doused yourself with Coffee perfume- as if that's even a thing! This butter is made up of hydrogenated vegetable oil and coffee oil. It is rich in lecithin and Vitamin E which smoothens and softens the skin by penetrating its top layer. It is very beneficial for those with extremely dry skin. 

Image by Hanna from Pixabay

While these butters play a vital role in the structure of our body creams, we also included oils to balance things out and help make the body cream easier to apply to the skin. Oils are known for their ability to seal in moisture. MalyNature's body creams include coconut oil, grapeseed oil and avocado oil.

Coconut Oil:

• Benefits: Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids (such as lauric acid) and vitamin E, making it excellent for moisturizing and nourishing the skin. It has antimicrobial properties that can help protect the skin barrier and soothe irritation.
• In Body Butter: Coconut oil in body butter provides deep hydration, forming a protective layer on the skin that retains moisture. It helps in smoothing and softening rough or dry patches.

Grapeseed Oil:

• Benefits: Grapeseed oil is lightweight and easily absorbed, rich in antioxidants (such as vitamin E) and omega fatty acids. It's known for its astringent properties, making it suitable for oily or acne-prone skin.
• In Body Butter: Grapeseed oil contributes to the light texture of body butter while providing moisturizing benefits. It helps balance oil production and can improve skin elasticity.

Avocado Oil:

• Benefits: Avocado oil is deeply penetrating and rich in vitamins A, D, and E, as well as essential fatty acids. It's highly moisturizing and soothing, making it ideal for dry, sensitive, or mature skin.
• In Body Butter: Avocado oil adds richness and nourishment to body butter, helping to replenish the skin's natural barrier. It promotes skin regeneration and can relieve inflammation or itching.

Image by pau_noia0 from Pixabay

When combined, these oils act as emollients in body butter, which means they soften and smooth the skin by filling in the gaps between skin cells, providing a protective layer that reduces water loss. They deliver vitamins, antioxidants, and fatty acids directly to the skin, promoting overall skin health and a youthful appearance. Each oil contributes to the texture and feel of body butter, from light and easily absorbed (like grapeseed oil) to richer and more nourishing (like avocado oil).

For water and oil to be combined without separating, which is necessary for cream and lotion concoctions, an emulsifier is required. Emulsifiers play a crucial role in body creams and skincare products by stabilizing the mixture of water and oil-based ingredients, ensuring they blend together smoothly and remain combined. Here's a breakdown of some additional ingredients used and their roles in body creams and skincare:

1. Cetyl Alcohol:

   • Function: Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from natural sources like coconut or palm oil.
   • Role: It acts as an emollient and emulsifier, helping to thicken and stabilize the consistency of creams and lotions. Cetyl alcohol also provides a smooth, velvety texture to skincare products without making them greasy.

2. BTMS-50 (Behentrimonium Methosulfate and Cetearyl Alcohol):

   • Function: BTMS-50 is a conditioning emulsifier derived from rapeseed oil.
   • Role: It functions as both a conditioning agent and an emulsifier. It helps to soften and detangle hair and can also impart a silky feel to skin. In body creams, BTMS-50 helps to stabilize the formulation while providing conditioning benefits to the skin.

3. Isopropyl Myristate:

   • Function: Isopropyl myristate is an ester of isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid.
   • Role: It acts as an emollient and lubricant, helping to soften and smooth the skin's surface. Isopropyl myristate also enhances the spreadability of creams and lotions, making them easier to apply.

4. LuxGlide (Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride):

   • Function: Caprylic/capric triglyceride is derived from coconut oil and glycerin.
   • Role: It is a lightweight emollient that helps to improve the glide and spreadability of skincare products. LuxGlide also moisturizes the skin and enhances the delivery of active ingredients.

5. Silk Amino Acids:

   • Function: Silk amino acids are hydrolyzed proteins derived from silk.
   • Role: They provide moisturizing and conditioning benefits to the skin and hair. In body creams, silk amino acids can help improve the skin's texture, leaving it feeling smooth and soft. They also contribute to a silky, luxurious feel in skincare formulations.

Overall, all of these ingredients play essential roles in body creams by contributing to their texture, stability, and skin-conditioning properties. They help to create products that feel pleasant on the skin, provide moisturization, and deliver active ingredients effectively. 

Do you prefer body butter or body cream?

Liked this blog? Are you ready for the full MalyNature experience? Well, here are some ways you can keep up with us:

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"Love the skin you are in, and enjoy your glow"

The Wonders of Ayurvedic and African Herbs in Hair & Skin Care

With modern technologies and various chemical based products that have been created to treat skin and hair conditions, many have lost sight of the fact that, in the past, our fore-parents relied upon and successfully used "bush- medicine"  to heal and treat a plethora of symptoms. 

The use of Ayurvedic herbs in hair and skin care is an ancient Indian tradition, that dates back to more than 3,000 years ago and has surpassed the test of time. The word Ayurveda is comprised of two (2) parts, ayur  (life) and veda (science or knowledge). Therefore Ayurveda means The Science of Life.  It is the belief that diseases arise based on an imbalance or stressors in a person's mind.  With adjustments to certain lifestyle practices and the use of natural remedies, the practice of Ayurveda seeks to strike a balance between the body, mind, soul and the environment that we live in.   

Ayurveda starts with a purification process within the body and offers suggestions for a unique diet complemented by natural remedies and incorporates wellness aspects such as massage therapy, yoga and meditation. It is based on a connection with the universe. The terms prakriti-  how the body is made up, and dosha- our way of life are the foundations upon which ayurvedic medicine are formulated.

Much like other health based practices, such as homeopathic, naturopathic, Western, Chinese medicine and others, Ayurveda is another type of medical care that is recognized and regulated by the state. Ayurveda comprises of herbs, minerals and other substances that can be harmful if misused or if there are underlying ailments or illnesses that do not support this practice. Hence, it is encouraged that you consult your physician prior to use, if you are at risk, pregnant, nursing, or intend to use on a child.

In addition to Ayurvedic herbs, MalyNature also incorporates traditional and ancient African herbs into a variety of their products for hair and skin. There are many historical tribes and cultures within various parts of Africa, where medicine came directly from the earth. In fact, it is said that the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra's glow is attributed to the use of a combination of herbs and botanicals that are indigenous to the Mother Land. From dark to light, it is undeniable that the melanin of people of African lineage, surpasses time and is to be coveted. The statement, "black don't crack", is a popular quote that is used to describe an African's ability to disguise their age. With an oil combination or herbal infusion for every crease of the body, every strand of hair and every ailment, the secret to flawless appearance has been discovered, thanks to our fore-parents passing down this wealth of knowledge, in the way they cared for us from generation to generation. 

When you look at practices from the women of Chad in their hair care routine with Chebe, the dark chocolatey hue of the Sudanese skin and the radiant glow of the people of Morocco, just to highlight a few, it raises curiosity as to what these cultures all have in common. They have a rich history built on the use of natural remedies to care for and treat their hair, skin and illnesses.  Historically, prior to the invasion of the Europeans to African continents, the use of botanicals and herbs in their natural form was the way of life to heal many ailments, irritations and inflammations. Many of these traditional herbs are incorporated and processed into prescription and other forms of medication, that we are accustomed to in the modern world. 

In many African cultures, the practice of using traditional herbal medicine as a form of healing is still in effect today for various reasons, such as, a lack of access to Western medicine, grounded belief in cultural practices and/or affordability.  Over recent times, we see the practice of infusing herbs and botanicals, of African origin, on the rise in the use of skin and hair care. As many people of African decent, from all over the world, are embracing their natural attributes in hair and skin. As a people, we are beginning to understand that we can have long, beautiful healthy hair too, and the color of our skin is to be treasured and nurtured. As a result, we are going back to our roots to find out what our ancestors, who maintained these qualities for centuries, have been doing. Those with hair loss and thinning issues, such as alopecia and other concerns, as well as those with skin conditions such as eczema have used African herb and botanical infused products with great success. Cosmetic skincare products made with herbs and botanicals, native to Africa, have been formulated and used due to the barrier they form on the skin to help protect it from the elements, enhance and preserve the skin in it's healthiest form. 

MalyNature has embraced elements from both Ayurvedic and African traditions by creating a fusion of various types of herbs and botanicals, blended with oils and other ingredients, to form effective hair, skin and self-care products that can be used and enjoyed by the entire family. While we do not make any medical claims on our products, history and research show that these ingredients, when used correctly, offer noticeable benefits to the hair and skin. 

An interesting point to note, is that, many of the herbs and botanicals that we use are also safe for consumption and are often used in teas and the preparation of a variety delicious ethnic dishes. This, in my opinion, explains why most people of similar cultures share such a marked resemblance in their attributes, for example, the women of Chad, as referenced earlier, are depicted to have extremely long, natural hair. 

Our brand strives to produce high quality, natural products that serve to enrich the lives of our customers and to provide information on why we use the ingredients that we include in our products. By doing so, you leave our website not only with the expectation of receiving great and effective products, but also useful references to draw from, about the purpose of the product, recommended usage and the explicit list of ingredients, as we believe knowledge is power and we aim to be transparent, so you can indulge confidently. 

Amongst so many options to choose from in the world of cosmetics, MalyNature proudly offers a unique collection of products, locally made in Calgary AB, Canada, infused with natural herbs and botanicals, used centuries ago by Indian and African cultures, that transcends the test of time. Many of these ingredients can be found in small portions in commercial cosmetic products and medicines. However, MalyNature has made these ingredients the star of its formulations, for healthy looking and feeling, beautiful, radiant hair and skin.

Are you ready for your glow up?

Liked this blog? Are your ready for the full MalyNature experience? Well, here are some ways you can keep up with us:

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- Become a VIP on our website by signing up to our emails at www.malynature.com and get 20% off your first purchase
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Our Picks For You: 

Ayurvedic Hair Repair Growth Oil

Goat's Milk & Clay Body Wash

Botanical Body & Hair Oil- Radiance

Body Butter Bars

Use code SHOP22 for $5 OFF $20 or more purchase.

References: 

John Hopkins Medicine. Health. Ayurveda. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/ayurveda#

Ncoza C. Dlova MBChB, FCDerm, PhD; Moses A. Ollengo BED, MSc, PhD (Version of Record 13 June 2018). 

Traditional and ethnobotanical dermatology practices in Africa. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0738081X18300452

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"Love the skin you wear, and wear your skin with love."