DON'T GET CAUGHT STINKING THIS SUMMER

Summer is right around the corner, although it's already in FULL effect here in Miami. The heat, humidity and sweat are the perfect ingredients for smelly underarms. (please, if you love me, stop calling it armpit🥴)

And not only does summer enhance your "natural fragrance," but I remember being a new mom and going through this transformative experience while also being unprepared for some funky challenges, like changes in body odor. Who tf was gonna tell me I would be smelling like this?

Hormonal fluctuations & increased stress levels can contribute to body odor during the postpartum period, but it wasn't until I found out that our super distinct smell also occurs as a way to support the newborn baby and initiate breastfeeding! Our babies literally rely on our scent in order to find our breast and begin the first latch. And as beautiful as all that sounds, it's still essential for new moms to prioritize self-care and find ways to manage body odor naturally.

Don't worry, though – the smell is usually temporary. You know, unless you make a change in your daily routine or you get into the summer months and you end up looking for a blog post on how to manage the heat and your smell. Either way, I got you covered! In this blog post, I'll share an effective summer routine using natural remedies and topical products that will help you keep your underarms fresh and odor-free. And guess what? Chlorophyll plays a star role in this routine. Thanking my grandma from now for introducing it to me as a little girl. Let's get into it!

Understanding Body Odor

Before we dive into the remedies, let's briefly explore why body odor occurs.

When we sweat, especially in areas like the underarms and groin, bacteria that live on our skin break down the sweat and release substances that create an unpleasant smell. This happens because the sweat produced by certain glands in these areas contains proteins and fats that bacteria love to feed on. As bacteria consume these compounds, they produce byproducts which cause the characteristic odor we associate with body odor.

Understanding this process helps us tackle body odor effectively by addressing sweat production and the presence of bacteria.

So let me help you keep body odor at bay, so you can have every reason to lift your hands high without ever feeling to do that quick double take.

1. Harness the Power of Chlorophyll: Chlorophyll, the vibrant green pigment found in plants, has been known for its deodorizing properties. Try incorporating chlorophyll-rich foods into your diet or consider chlorophyll supplements to help neutralize body odor from within.

I could literally stop here and say, "you're welcome", because chlorophyll is truly the answer. I've noticed changes in my odor almost immediately when I've either stopped or started drinking my chlorophyll. Some might argue that supplements are the "weak or fake" version of getting your chlorophyll and that you should just juice greens. I'll say why not do both?

If you want to juice and get richer benefits from your fruits and veggies, grab you some arugula, kale, cucumber, green apples, watercress, spinach etc ) you know, food thats green and drink it on a daily.

Until I get comfortable with juicing on a regular, my liquid chlorophyll and capsules have been a staple in my life for as long as I can remember.

Grandma used to have us drinking chlorophyll with our water since childhood and at this point it's a way of life.

2. Gentle Cleansing with Natural Soaps: Switching to natural soaps that are free from harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances is a great step toward combating underarm odor. Look for soaps with antibacterial properties, such as tea tree oil or lavender. My go to soap has always been Dr. Bronners.

3. Exfoliation for Fresher Underarms: Regular exfoliation is key for maintaining fresh underarms. You can gently scrub your underarms with a homemade or natural exfoliant, but my personal favorite is using a dry brush. Exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, reducing the likelihood of bacteria buildup.

4. The Magic of Natural Deodorants: If you haven't been using natural deodorants or you claim that they don't work for you, (refer back to step 1 and then go to step 7). Swapping out your conventional deodorants for natural alternatives that are free from aluminum, parabens, and synthetic fragrances is beneficial for a healthy body. Look for deodorants containing natural ingredients like baking soda, arrowroot powder, coconut oil, and essential oils to combat odor effectively.

5. Control your Sweat: Choosing breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics for your summer wardrobe can help keep your underarms dry and odor-free. Opt for natural fibers such as cotton, linen, or bamboo to allow better airflow and reduce sweat accumulation.

6. Freshening Up On-the-Go: Keep a travel-sized bottle of natural rosewater or witch hazel spray in your bag for quick freshening up throughout the day. These natural sprays have a refreshing scent and can help neutralize odor while providing a cool sensation.

7. Hydration and Diet: Don't forget the importance of staying hydrated! Drinking an adequate amount of water helps flush out toxins from your body, reducing body odor. Additionally, consider incorporating odor-fighting foods into your diet, such as citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, and herbs like parsley and mint.

With this summer routine using natural remedies and topical products, you can confidently say bye to smelly underarms and embrace a fresh and odor-free summer. From harnessing the power of chlorophyll to choosing natural deodorants and incorporating healthy habits, you have all the tools to combat body odor the natural way. Enjoy the sunshine without worrying about unpleasant smells.

Remember, each body is unique, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for you.

Disclaimer: Please consult a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your skincare or dietary routines, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or allergies.