these simple recipes. If you’re concerned about what’s in deodorants, these recipes have very few ingredients and they’re likely all familiar to you already.
Benefits of DIY Natural Deodorants
There are a few advantages to natural deodorants.
Chemical-free Formulations
One of the major advantages of making your own natural deodorant is that you have complete control over the ingredients. You can avoid substances of concern like aluminum, parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances.
Natural deodorants are made with whatever you decide. These can be very simple pantry ingredients that help stop the odor without triggering reactions.
Cost-effective Solution
DIY natural deodorants are also more budget-friendly compared to their store-bought counterparts. Most homemade deodorants require simple ingredients that are readily available in your kitchen pantry or local grocery store.
By making your family’s deodorant, you can save money in the long run while still enjoying effective odor protection.
Customizable Scents
Another advantage of DIY natural deodorants is that you can customize the scent according to your personal preference. Essential oils, such as lavender, tea tree, or citrus, can be added to your deodorant recipe.
Or you can leave it fragrance free!
Essential Ingredients for Homemade Deodorants
To make your own natural deodorant, you will need a few basic ingredients. Here are the essential components that form the base of most DIY deodorant recipes:
Baking Soda
Baking soda acts as a natural odor neutralizer and helps absorb moisture. It combats body odor, making it a staple in many homemade deodorants.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is widely used in natural skincare products because of to its moisturizing and antimicrobial properties. It helps keep the skin hydrated and provides a smooth consistency to the deodorant.
Arrowroot Powder or Cornstarch
Arrowroot powder or cornstarch is often added to homemade deodorants as a thickening agent. It helps absorb excess moisture, keeping your underarms dry and comfortable throughout the day.
Essential Oils
Essential oils not only add a nice clean scent to your deodorant, and some also offer additional benefits. Tea tree oil, for example, has antibacterial properties, while lavender oil provides a soothing and calming effect.
Tips for Using DIY Natural Deodorants
To get the most out of your homemade deodorant, follow these helpful tips:
Give it Time
When you make the switch from conventional deodorants to natural alternatives, your body may need some time to adjust. Be patient and give it a few weeks to adapt to the new deodorant.
You may notice increased sweating or changes in odor for a couple of weeks. This is normal and should subside as your body adjusts.
Apply Sparingly
Natural deodorants are typically more concentrated than their commercial counterparts. A little goes a long way, so apply a small amount to your underarms and spread it evenly.
This will help prevent any potential residue or staining on your clothes.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Without synthetic preservatives, homemade deodorants have a shorter shelf life than store-bought options. To prolong their effectiveness, store them in a cool, dry place or even in the refrigerator during warmer months.
Patch Test
Before applying any new deodorant to your underarms, perform a patch test on a small area of skin. This will help you determine if you have any sensitivities or allergies to the ingredients used in the recipe.
You can be allergic to anything, natural or lab-derived. Poison ivy is natural, too, as they say.
DIY Natural Deodorant Recipes
Now for the recipes!
Recipe 1: Simple Baking Soda Deodorant
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup baking soda
- ¼ cup arrowroot powder or cornstarch
- 5 tablespoons coconut oil
- 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix baking soda and arrowroot powder or cornstarch.
- Add coconut oil and essential oil (if using) to the dry ingredients.
- Stir well until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
- Transfer the deodorant to a clean container, such as a small jar or an empty deodorant stick.
- Allow the mixture to cool and solidify before use.
Recipe 2: Shea Butter Cream Deodorant
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons shea butter
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder or cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 10 drops of your preferred essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Melt the shea butter and coconut oil together in a double boiler or microwave.
- Once melted, remove from heat and add baking soda, arrowroot powder or cornstarch, and essential oil (if desired).
- Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Pour the mixture into a clean container and let it solidify at room temperature.
- Apply a small amount to your underarms using your fingertips.
Recipe 3: Sensitive Skin Deodorant Stick
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup coconut oil
- ¼ cup shea butter
- ¼ cup beeswax pellets
- ¼ cup arrowroot powder or cornstarch
- 10-15 drops of a gentle essential oil (such as chamomile or calendula)
Instructions:
- In a heatproof bowl, combine coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax pellets.
- Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, creating a double boiler.
- Stir until all the ingredients have melted and are well combined.
- Remove from heat and add arrowroot powder or cornstarch and essential oil.
- Mix thoroughly and pour the mixture into empty deodorant containers.
- Allow the mixture to cool and solidify before use.