<p>I have developed a rash under both arms. After trying several OTC ointments to get rid of it, I think I have determined that I have become allergic to my deodorant/anti-perspirant. I have a physical scheduled for Monday, so I will discuss with my doctor then. Assuming that she determines it is an allergic reaction, I was wondering if anybody has used any natural or hypoallergenic products that they are happy with, such as Crystal or Tom’s?</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>Have you switched to a different shaver? Has your regular deodorant been reformulated lately? Look for “new” and “improved” wording on the packages.</p>
<p>I’ve been using Crystal for many years now - I switched because I was not a fan of white residues left by other sticks (and did not want to pay a premium for department store offerings). I like it. It does not cost a whole lot, so give it a try - even if you have to throw it out you will not be in the money hole. :)</p>
<p>I have not switched to any new products lately. The anti-perspirant I am currently using is the last one out of a multi-pack bought at a wholesale club. I initially thought it couldn’t be the problem since I had been using it for quite a while without a reaction. I had not been using it lately while I was trying to clear up the rash with ointments like hydrocortisone or lotrimin. I used the anti-perspirant for the first time in a while yesterday, and the rash flared up pretty bad, making me think that it is the culprit.</p>
<p>Try nothing for a while to give the rash a chance to heal.</p>
<p>If you are showering every day you may not even need it unless you have a high-stress or a “sweaty” job.</p>
<p>^^Great advice. </p>
<p>1 in 4-5 people in the US carries staph bacteria on their skin that could cause rash and irritation if it gets into cuts (such as nicks caused by razor blades). Neosporin usually takes care of the problem if it is bacterial (and the bacteria is not drug resistant), and the skin needs to be kept dry and clear of irritants until it heals. Hope your problem goes away soon.</p>
<p>I never use anti-perspirant, just deodorant. Maybe I’m not a big sweater because I never notice sweat under my arms, and I never smell.</p>
<p>A family member convinced me years ago that anti-perspirants were not healthy for the body.</p>
<p>Since it is winter, I probably can go without for a while than try a natural deodorant after its healed. I’ll see what the doctor says on Monday. She may think it is something else entirely. Thanks again.</p>
<p>The same thing happened to me after using the same deodorant for decades. The itch nearly drove me crazy until it dawned on me I had developed an allergy. I simply switched to Almay hypoallergenic clear deodorant. It’s easy to find with the regular deordorants and did the trick for me. I’d give it a try.</p>