Going Natural My Journey to… Freshness?
Grooming
By Ammar Thomas
Going Natural; My Journey to… Freshness?
Day 1: Taking the Leap Today, I tossed out my trusty antiperspirant and replaced it with a sleek, all natural deodorant. No more aluminum, only twigs & berries from here on out. I’ve been reading about how traditional antiperspirants block sweat glands with aluminum compounds, parabens, and phthalates. If sweating is a natural process, why am I trying so hard to shut it down? The idea of switching to a product that works with my body instead of against it feels right, even if I’m a bit nervous about the adjustment period a.k.a. FUNK!
Day 3: Adjusting to the New Normal The first couple of days were… interesting. I got a whiff of myself after an aggressive day in the gym and WHEW. Without aluminum plugging up my sweat glands, it’s like my body is figuring out how to regulate itself. Not feeling optimistic just yet but just getting underway on this journey.
Day 7: Detox Mode One week in, and I’m fully in what they call the "detox phase." My body is purging itself of the residue left behind by years of antiperspirant use. There’s definitely more sweat than usual, but it doesn’t smell as bad as I feared. I’ve been hydrating more. I think wearing lighter, breathable fabrics may help. Don’t know if I’d recommend trying this in the summer. I keep reminding myself that this is temporary and part of a bigger picture.
Day 14: A Turning Point Something shifted this week. Sweating has decreased, and my body seems to have found its groove. What’s more, I’ve been reading about how sweating helps release toxins from the body and even supports the immune system. Instead of dreading it, I’m starting to embrace it as a sign of my body doing its job.
Day 21: Skin Deep Benefits I’ve noticed another unexpected perk: my underarms feel healthier. No irritation, no strange bumps—just smooth skin. Many aluminum-free deodorants, including mine, contain skin-nourishing ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter. Who knew switching deodorants could feel so luxurious?
Day 30: Fresh Perspective It’s been a month, and I’m officially a convert. My aluminum-free deodorant keeps me fresh all day, and I’m no longer worried about what’s being absorbed into my skin. Knowing I’m avoiding potentially harmful chemicals gives me peace of mind. Plus, I’ve started noticing a ripple effect: I’m paying closer attention to the ingredients in other personal care products, too. This small change has sparked a broader commitment to healthier living.
Final Thoughts: A Journey Worth Taking Transitioning to aluminum-free deodorant wasn’t without its challenges, but the benefits far outweigh the initial discomfort. My skin is healthier, and I’ve gained a new appreciation for how amazing the body is when we let it do its thing. If you’ve been considering making the switch, I say go for it. Embrace the process, and you’ll come out on the other side feeling fresher—in more ways than one.
