The human body produces a maximum amount of 10-14 litres of sweat every day.
Without giving it any thought, we instruct our teens to follow societal norms in keep odor in check.
But for some, using the regular options either leads to skin sensitivity – triggering itchy and dry skin – or due to a pre-existing condition, renders them completely useless.
• Also read: Is your teen plagued by excessive sweating?
And then there are the concerns about harmful ingredients like aluminium compounds, parabens and propylene glycol commonly found in products - some linked to causing breast cancer, kidney/liver damage and even infertility.
This leads many to reject the use of deodorants and antiperspirants, sparking alternative ways of dealing with sweat.
We searched the web, and found a few natural ways you can mask smelly scents and keep fresh.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a natural antiseptic, and kills bacteria due to the enzymes found in raw, unfiltered and organic ACV.
Its strong smell only lasts a few minutes. You may need to reapply throughout the day depending on activity level.
How to use:
- Soak facial cotton pads in undiluted ACV till damp
- Apply generously to the underarms
- Allow to dry
A word of caution: using the raw, unfiltered and organic kind is an absolute must.
Essential oils
Witch hazel
Baking soda and coconut oil
- Also read: No sweat!
Lemon Juice
Using lemon is possibly as natural as it gets. It's as simple as cutting a slice of lemon and dampening the underarm skin with the juice.
The citric acid in the fruit is what keeps odour-causing bacteria at bay. It's also rich in antioxidants like potassium, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin C.
More of a deodorant than an antiperspirant but promises to keep your natural scent pleasant.
Be careful not to apply directly after shaving.
- Also read: Sweating it out
Milk of Magnesia
Shaving
Read more:
- 16 most embarrassing running questions… answered!
- Snot and sweat
- Is your sports star perhaps dehydrated?
Have you tried any of these natural alternatives before? What was the result? Any items missing from the list above? Send your comments and suggestions to chatback@parent.com and we might publish them. Do let us know if you'd like to stay anonymous.
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