Lemon vs. deodorant: an investigation into natural armpit care (2024)

A new trend has taken TikTok by storm: users have started using lemon instead of deodorant to naturally keep body odor at bay. Typing “lemon underarms” or “lemon as deodorant” brings up hundreds of videos of users testing out whether or not this hack really works.

If you aren’t familiar with it, the beauty trick consists of cutting lemons in half or slicing them and rubbing them directly on the armpits.

As a natural body care company backed by science, we decided to personally investigate viral TikTok trends to see if there is merit and legitimacy in their claims #caporfact.

Can lemon act as a natural deodorant?

What makes lemons favorable as a deodorant replacement is that they are rich in citric acid, which possesses antimicrobial and acidic properties. These properties change the pH level of the skin, creating an unfavorable environment for odor-causing bacteria.

But does using lemons as deodorant work?

While lemons do have antimicrobial properties, there is a lack of scientific studies specifically examining their effectiveness as deodorants. Most of the information available is anecdotal or based on personal experiences.

Lemons are also (surprise!) very acidic. With a pH of 2-3 they are much more acidic than your underarms natural pH of 5.5-6.5. While this does make it an unfavorable site for bacteria, it can also be much too harsh for the delicate underarm skin. Irritation can cause the skin to become red, darker, and inflamed.

Be mindful of the high vitamin c concentration too, while it possesses many benefits, can lead to staining your clothes.

If you are going to explore this alternative, proceed with caution.

Pros and cons of using lemon to reduce body odor

Pros:

  • Natural and eco-friendly option
  • Citrus scent can provide a refreshing fragrance
  • Some antimicrobial properties may inhibit bacterial growth

Cons:

  • Lack of scientific evidence on effectiveness
  • Lemon juice may cause skin irritation or sensitivity in some individuals due to its acidic nature
  • Lemon juice may disrupt the natural pH balance of the skin
  • Lemon contains vitamin C, which is known for oxidizing and staining clothes
  • Some skin tones react to irritation with inflammation which can lead to hyperpigmentation (causing skin to become darker).

Alternatives for using lemons for underarm odor

If you're interested in natural options for reducing underarm odor, deodorants like Nala Care’s free-from deodorants are a great option. In particular, Nala Care’s personalized deodorants are available in a sensitive skin formula, which is free-from any harsh compounds and effectively reduces body odor without irritating the skin.

Lemon vs. deodorant: an investigation into natural armpit care (2024)

FAQs

Does putting lemon on your armpits work? ›

Lemons can temporarily decrease odor in the armpits, and the alpha-hydroxy acid in citric acid can kill odor-causing bacteria,” Dr. Geeta Yadav told Shape in an interview, but added that “antiperspirant and deodorant are a much better and safer way (than using lemons)” when it comes to diminishing body odor.

What is the best detox for armpits? ›

Most armpit detoxes use a homemade mask of bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar. Some also include water to dilute the vinegar. Others use equal parts bentonite clay and coconut oil for a more soothing, hydrating mix that still has some antibacterial properties, thanks to the coconut oil.

Does baking soda and lemon help with armpit odor? ›

By keeping your underarms clean, using baking soda, apple cider vinegar, or lemon juice, wearing natural fibers, staying hydrated, and eating a healthy diet, you can get rid of underarm odour naturally.

How to detox your armpits with lemon? ›

It consists of mixing one tablespoon of baking soda with the juice of half a lemon to make a paste. She then takes the paste and scrub it into your armpits for five minutes, then repeats the process four times a week.

What are the side effects of using lemon on armpits? ›

While many websites claim that lemon for armpits is good, the truth is that lemon can actually be bad for the skin. Lemons, and some other citrus fruits, contain chemicals that have been known to cause skin hypersensitivity, especially when combined with sun exposure.

How do I permanently get rid of underarm odor? ›

Personal hygiene and lifestyle
  1. Keep your skin clean by taking a daily bath or shower with antibacterial soap. ...
  2. Keep your armpits shaved, so sweat evaporates quickly and doesn't have as much time to interact with bacteria. ...
  3. Regularly wash clothing, and wear clean clothes.
  4. Wear loose-fitting clothing made of cotton.

What can I put on my armpits instead of deodorant? ›

Alternative deodorant options
  • Witch hazel. Witch hazel is a versatile ingredient to keep in your cupboard. ...
  • Baking soda or cornstarch. These typical kitchen ingredients are used for more than just baking or cooking. ...
  • Lemon juice. ...
  • Rubbing alcohol. ...
  • Apple cider vinegar. ...
  • Coconut oil. ...
  • Baking soda & coconut oil. ...
  • Crystal deodorant.
Jan 28, 2021

How do you get rid of armpit buildup? ›

Use an old toothbrush to rub a mixture of baking soda and water into the stain. A touch of hydrogen peroxide can also help on white clothing. Scrub the stain with a mixture of lemon juice and water. Soak the clothes in water with a drop of white vinegar.

Does apple cider vinegar clean armpits? ›

Apply apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial properties that can help to kill the bacteria that cause underarm odour. Dilute apple cider vinegar with water and apply it to your underarms with a cotton ball. Let it dry before putting on your clothes.

Does hydrogen peroxide help armpit odor? ›

Try a solution of hydrogen peroxide and water to fight body odor. Use 1 teaspoon of peroxide (3%) to 1 cup (8 ounces) of water. Wipe this on affected areas (underarms, feet, groin) with a washcloth. This may help destroy some of the bacteria that create odor.

How to smell good all day female? ›

How To Smell Good All Day Long: 10 Tips
  1. #3 Wash Your Clothes Regularly. ...
  2. #4 Apply Antiperspirant At Night To Make It More Effective. ...
  3. #5 Stay Hydrated By Drinking Water. ...
  4. #6 Reapply Antiperspirant Deodorant Throughout The Day. ...
  5. #7 Shower Regularly. ...
  6. #9 Wear Lightweight Clothing. ...
  7. #10 Apply Fragrances To Pulse Points.

Can I apply lemon directly on underarms? ›

This can cause a sunburn-like rash, irritation and inflammation in severe cases. Since it is photosensitive it can also cause skin burns. Underarm skin is sensitive and can be more susceptible to damage than good. So, it is better to avoid applying lemon juice especially over the underarms,” she said.

How often should I put lemon on my underarms? ›

Repeat two to three times per week. Lemon. Cut thick slices of lemon and rub the slices on your underarms. After 10 minutes, rinse your underarms with cool water, dry them, and apply a moisturizer.

Why does it burn when I put lemon on my armpits? ›

very acidic. With a pH of 2-3 they are much more acidic than your underarms natural pH of 5.5-6.5. While this does make it an unfavorable site for bacteria, it can also be much too harsh for the delicate underarm skin. Irritation can cause the skin to become red, darker, and inflamed.

Does lemon stop sweaty armpits? ›

Lemon Juice: Lemon juice has natural antibacterial properties and acidic properties that may help control underarm odor and reduce sweat. Sage Tea: Sage tea is known for its sweat-reducing properties. Baking Soda: Baking soda may help absorb moisture and neutralize odors.

How can I lighten my armpits in 3 days? ›

You can get rid of darkness in these simple steps:
  1. Exfoliate…Exfoliate…Exfoliate… Exfoliating your underarms is a very important step to get rid of the darkness. ...
  2. Apply a mask. ...
  3. Keep your underams clean by waxing regularly.
  4. Use a whitening deodorant.
Jan 28, 2021

How long does it take for lemon to lighten skin? ›

If you apply lemon juice to your skin daily, your skin will lighten in about two weeks. For some people, it may take 3 to 4 weeks to lighten their skin with lemon juice. Lemons have been proven to lighten dark spots, freckles, acne marks, and generally brighten skin tone.

Does lemon water make you smell better? ›

The natural disinfectant and antibacterial abilities of lemons also help eliminate body odor and control bad breath caused by bacteria. The acidic property of lemon juice helps lower the skin's pH level, which makes it difficult for odor-producing bacteria to survive.

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