MY WEEKEND INSIGHT
6th December, 2025
THE OFTEN IGNORED TRUTH ABOUT BODY ODOR
Sabiiti Herbert
In one of our men’s forums, my friend called Warren once made a bold statement: “If you are a man without deodorant, tap your chest three times and remind yourself that you are a fool”.Some men still move confidently in public while smelling unpleasant, often without realizing it.
Body care is not just about hygiene; it is about self-respect and how you show up in the world. The way you care for your body communicates how you value yourself and how mindful you are of the people around you.
Unfortunately a fact many don’t know: About 95% of deodorants on the market are antiperspirants. These products block your pores using aluminium compounds, preventing your body from sweating. Yet sweating is a natural and necessary process, how the body cools itself, balances temperature, and eliminates what it does not need. Blocking sweat interferes with the body’s natural function.
Deodorants, especially natural ones, work differently. They allow your body to sweat normally while managing odor in a healthier, gentler way.
A friend of mine, Alicia of Marylin products, who lives and works in Sweden, has built an organic skincare brand rooted in this understanding. Her company developed Blissful Pits, a natural deodorant made entirely from organic ingredients. I mention her because her journey highlights a shift many of us need to make; towards more conscious, informed personal care.
She shared with me how she once used deodorants without ever thinking about the ingredients. It wasn’t until she researched aluminium, parabens, and the long-term effects of certain chemicals that she became intentional about what she applied to her skin. After trying several “natural” options that failed to deliver, she decided to create the solution herself.
Her formula grew from simple, natural ingredients of Shea butter, Coconut oil, Beeswax, Arrowroot, Magnesium hydroxide and Vitamin E.
Batch by batch, her product evolved into an effective, gentle deodorant now trusted by my family and friends.
The bigger message is this: Your body deserves thoughtful care. What you apply to your skin especially daily-use products directly affects your health and well-being. Choosing cleaner, natural options is not a trend; it is a responsible shift.
As we navigate life, careers, relationships, and leadership, let us also pay attention to the small but meaningful habits that shape our presence. Good grooming, including proper deodorant use, is part of the discipline of showing up well.
Do not beat your chest indefinitely.