Purifying Your Pits
You’ve heard of face, hair and even foot masks. But have you ever heard of an armpit mask? Armpit masks are exactly what they sound like: a mixture you apply to your pits, let dry and then wash off. While some claim that these masks help eliminate odor, draw toxins from the body and lead to healthier pits, many skin experts are not convinced. Here at The Edge, we love a good TikTok hack, but just how helpful are these viral armpit detoxes?
What Is in an Armpit Detox Mask?
Typically, these armpit detox masks are homemade and contain ingredients that you might find around the house. However, there are plenty of pre-made armpit masks on the market. Typically, these masks contain apple cider vinegar and bentonite clay. If you’re making one at home, be sure to dilute the apple cider vinegar with water. If the mask is too concentrated with either of these ingredients, your pits are more likely to be irritated.
What Do These Masks Do?
These masks are mainly used by people who are looking to switch deodorant brands, but they can also be used as a general cleanser. When you switch from one deodorant type to another, there may be a period of time when you sweat and smell more as your body adjusts. This is especially common when switching from aluminum deodorant to natural deodorant.
The point of these masks is to cleanse, or “detox,” your armpits of the bacteria that cause odor. Remember, it’s not your sweat that smells; it's the bacteria that live on the surface of your skin. Armpit mask enthusiasts claim the detox helps their body adjust quickly to the new deodorant by sucking out dirt, oil and built-up deodorant residue.
Does Armpit Detoxing Really Work?
The results of the armpit detox masks have varied. Although TikTok influencers may promote the use of armpit masks, experts claim that these masks have no scientific evidence supporting them. In theory, these masks may help cleanse your armpits due to the natural ingredients used. According to Dermatologist Amy Kassouf, MD, the use of clay and apple cider on the armpits shouldn’t cause damage. However, these products could cause irritation if left on the armpits for too long, or if the mask is too concentrated with either ingredient. She theorizes that apple cider vinegar could be helpful in lowering the armpit’s pH and preventing bacteria growth. She adds that the clay may bind to unwanted dirt and oils in the skin.
Although these ingredients may be helpful in cleansing your armpits, they’re unlikely to work better than regular soap and water. The term “detox” is a bit misleading in this case; the mask isn’t actually detoxing your body. Toxins in the body are not removed through the skin. The liver and kidneys are the body’s main detoxification. While the mask can be cleansing, it doesn’t take away toxins.
The Verdict
The lack of scientific evidence supporting these masks suggests that they aren’t all they’re cracked up to be. Although the idea of purifying your pits through an easy DIY mask seems fun, it’s hard to know whether it works or not. If you try out an armpit mask, be sure to do a patch test first so you can gauge how your skin will react to it. And, as always, be sure to tag @theedgemag on Instagram and share your results!