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Have you recently switched to using Lume deodorant? If so, you may have noticed that it has a pretty strong and unpleasant smell. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many people who try Lume for the first time are surprised by its unusual odor.
Popular natural deodorant Lume controls body odor with a unique composition. Lume stands out from conventional deodorants and antiperspirants because it blocks the formation of bacteria that cause odors, rather than masking them. However, Lume’s distinctive method also gives it a distinct fragrance that some find unsettling.
Wondering Why Does Lume Deodorant Smell So Bad? This blog post explores the reasons behind Lume’s strong scent and offers tips for dealing with it.
Why Does Lume Deodorant Smell So Bad? Science behind
To understand why Lume smells the way it does, we need to look at its main active ingredients. Lume’s formula is based on a combination of natural compounds called alpha and beta hydroxy acids.
These acids work by creating an environment that is inhospitable to the bacteria that cause body odor. When these bacteria can’t survive, they can’t produce the smelly compounds that lead to unpleasant body odors.
But here’s the catch: those alpha and beta hydroxy acids have a slightly vinegar-like smell of their own. So while Lume does an effective job of preventing body odor, it replaces that odor with a different, somewhat pungent scent.
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Why Does My Lume Smell Like Vinegar?
The most common complaint about Lume’s smell is that it has a strong vinegar-like odor. This is directly related to the alpha hydroxy acids (like lactic acid) and beta hydroxy acids (like salicylic acid) in Lume’s formula.
These acids have a slightly sour, acidic aroma that can be reminiscent of vinegar or fermented foods. So when you apply Lume, you’re essentially coating your underarms with a thin layer of these slightly smelly compounds.
The Role of Baking Soda and Essential Oils
In addition to the hydroxy acids, Lume’s formula also contains baking soda and essential oils. The baking soda helps neutralize odors, while the essential oils are added to provide a more pleasant scent.
However, the essential oils used in Lume (like lemongrass and clary sage) have a pretty strong aroma of their own. When combined with the vinegar-like smell of the acids and the slightly salty scent of baking soda, it can create a rather pungent and off-putting odor.
Does Lume’s Smell Go Away?
If Lume’s overpowering odour fades with time is one of the most commonly asked questions about it. The good news is that after a few days or weeks of regular application, the aroma does, for many people, tend to become less overpowering.
There are a few potential reasons for this:
- Your nose adjusts: Our sense of smell can adapt to ongoing scents, making them less noticeable over time. So as you get used to the way Lume smells, your brain may start filtering out that odor.
- Bacteria levels decrease: As Lume prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria in your underarms, there are fewer compounds for the hydroxy acids to react with. This can lead to a less intense smell overall.
- Skin adjusts to the formula: Initially, your skin may have a stronger reaction to the acids and other ingredients in Lume. But as your body gets used to the deodorant, that reaction (and the associated odor) may diminish.
Tips for Dealing with Lume’s Smell
While some people get used to Lume’s scent over time, others find it too overpowering to tolerate. If you fall into the latter category, here are some tips that may help:
Try the Unscented Version
Lume offers an unscented version of their deodorant that eliminates the essential oils from the formula. This can significantly reduce the overall intensity of the smell, leaving just a mild vinegar-like aroma from the hydroxy acids.
Apply Less Product
Using too much Lume can amplify the odor, so try applying a thinner layer to your underarms. A small amount is usually enough to provide odor protection without being overwhelmingly smelly.
Let It Dry Completely
The smell of Lume can become more potent when it mixes with sweat or moisture on your skin. Make sure to let the deodorant dry completely before getting dressed to minimize this effect.
Alternate with Other Deodorants
Try switching up Lume’s scent on some days with a more traditional deodorant or antiperspirant if you find it to be too overpowering. This will still have the odor-fighting qualities of Lume but give your nose a vacation from it.
Give It Time
As mentioned earlier, many people find that Lume’s smell becomes less noticeable over time as their bodies adjust to the formula. If you can tolerate the initial odor, stick with it for a few weeks to see if it improves.
When Lume’s Smell Becomes a Problem
In some cases, Lume’s strong smell can be more than just an annoyance – it can cause physical discomfort or other issues. If you experience any of the following, it may be a sign that Lume isn’t the right deodorant for you:
- Skin irritation or rashes: The acids in Lume can cause skin irritation or rashes in some people, especially if they have sensitive skin.
- Headaches or nausea: The potent odor of Lume can trigger headaches or nausea in individuals who are particularly sensitive to strong smells.
- Difficulty breathing: While rare, some people may experience respiratory difficulties or tightness in the chest when exposed to Lume’s scent.
If you experience any of these symptoms after using Lume, discontinue use immediately and consult with a healthcare professional if necessary.
The Verdict: Embrace or Replace Lume?
Whether or not you can tolerate Lume’s distinct scent ultimately depends on your tolerance and personal taste. Some people consider the smell to be a small annoyance that is worthwhile to put up with to achieve efficient, natural odor prevention. For some people, the smell is simply intolerable.
If you fall into the latter category, there’s no shame in admitting that Lume isn’t for you. There are plenty of other natural deodorant options on the market that may work better for your body chemistry and scent preferences.
Weighing the benefits and drawbacks of your unique requirements and priorities will ultimately determine whether you should continue with Lume or look for an alternative. Just keep in mind that wearing a deodorant that stinks is kind of pointless, so don’t feel pressured to put up with an odor that gets to you.
