Armpit rash from natural deodorant

An armpit rash could be an allergic reaction that can happen right after you use a new natural deodorant, or it could take years of using a product with no issues.

There are two types of allergic reactions,

Irritant contact dermatitis -

This happens when something in the natural deodorant you use damages your skin. The reaction shows up right away in the form of an oozy blister, rash, itch, burn, bump or severe redness.

Allergic contact dermatitis -

This typically happens because of your immune system and the symptoms are like irritant contact dermatitis.

Even an academically trained mind cannot differentiate these two reactions and they have to go through the standard trial and error, divide and conquer method to find the root cause.

Deodorants, natural or not, contain chemical compounds. Research suggests that these chemical compounds mix with protein and undergo a chemical reaction making them visible to your T cells. When the T cells identify these compounds as foreign objects, an allergic reaction may occur. Why this happens continues to be a mystery. 

Fear-mongering stems from a grey area like it. Tread carefully and side with science even if it does not offer conclusive root cause analysis at the moment.

One-off reactions to natural deodorants

One-off reactions such as bumps and pimples are normal and natural. They can happen with or without a product or an underlying cause. Discontinue use only if you are hurt.

How to avoid armpit rash from natural deodorant?

Please do not mix your natural deodorant with other products such as essential oils, fragrances, lotions, creams or any form of topical medication. Most of these products are hydrous formulations and may contain acids, stabilizers and preservatives. These ingredients may not be bad all by themselves however, if they interfere with Super Deodorant's chemistry, they could trigger an allergic reaction or the other way around.

A good example is an active ingredient such as Niacinamide. It is found widely in hyperpigmentation/dark spot removal creams and serums. The pH of the formulation must be between 5.5 and 6 for it to work effectively. Let's say, you mix it with another product, an AHA or probiotic-based deodorant and the pH of this combination becomes too acidic, it will produce niacin. Niacin is an irritant that will cause flushing and rashes.

As of now, the only way to prevent contact dermatitis or an armpit rash from a natural deodorant or any skincare product is to identify and avoid contact with the chemical that causes grief. Look for products with fewer ingredients like Super Deodorant. Doing so will reduce the chances of an allergic reaction. Even if an allergic reaction were to happen, identifying the root cause may become a lot easier. 

The eight ingredients used in Super Deodorant are commonly present in diaper rash creams and antiseptic ointments. Your safety is our priority. Super Deodorant is periodically tested by industry experts and a board-certified dermatologist. Here is the latest test result for your reference.