The Pandemic Soul

All images from Walgreens.com.

Let’s talk pits. If personal hygiene makes you queasy, move on dear reader.

So, I’ve always known that I have some sensitivity to deodorants. I’ve never been able to use antiperspirants, and up until a few months ago the only deodorant that didn’t give me a rash was Right Guard. I’ve been using this since high school, and only had problems every now and again, when an itchy rash would appear. I’d have to forgo deodorant for a week or two, but otherwise would be fine. Apparently, not using deodorant is a capital offense from what I’ve heard lately, but no one ever complained to me so either I didn’t smell very bad, or they didn’t notice.

A few weeks ago, however, I developed a pretty painful rash under my arms and had to stop using Right Guard altogether. I thought that perhaps this was normal, considering how hot it had been here in LA, and just dealt with it by regularly wiping under my arms with wet-wipes. Yes, I know, gross.

This went on for a few days, so I decided to investigate some other options, and headed out to the local Walgreens. I found “Tom’s of Maine Natural Care Natural Deodorant Stick,” which stated on the package “natural deodorant combines the botanicals sage and lemongrass, in a formula that is effective at fighting odor, yet gentle on the skin.” Hmm, ok, I’ll give it a try.

Over the course of the next few days, I was amazed at how there was absolutely no B.O. happening, but chagrined by a gradually worsening rash. After just four days, I was in such a state of itchyness, I discontinued Tom’s and had to actually go to the doctor for relief. There, I was given an anti-fungal, and urged not to use Tom’s anymore. So much for that.

It continued to be mightily hot in LA, however, and it was difficult to try and, shall we say, “cleanse” my underarms at work to avoid raising any eyebrows. I went at lunch to Target and bought a new type of spray-on, Arrid. It had a great, fresh smell, for the win. This, too, ended up giving me a rash however — though, not as bad as either Right Guard or Tom’s had done.

At my wit’s end, I gave up on deodorant and figured I would end up just having to keep my arms glued to my side for the rest of my life.

Until I met my new best friend: “TCCD International Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystals Spray Mist for Men & Women.” I don’t know WTF is up with the name, either, but this shit works.

Not only is there no smell, but it’s clear, has a pump spray (”good for the environment!” they say), and doesn’t give me a damn rash. I can’t say enough about it, except what I already have. Go buy yourself some at Walgreens today and forget about roll-on crap forever!

And no, I’m not getting paid for this post. I’m just so happy to be odor free, I have to tell the world!