Simple, Effective, Homemade, Non-toxic Deodorant
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Do you want to make your deodorant that is safe, effective, and inexpensive? A homemade deodorant is a great option for those who are looking for an alternative to conventional store-bought deodorants. Not only does it help you save money, but it also allows you to create a product that is free of potentially harmful chemicals. In this article, we will discuss how to make a simple and effective homemade deodorant using natural ingredients.
I switched to a natural deodorant back in 2020. I wanted a deodorant free of aluminum, artificial fragrance, and other harmful ingredients. I also wanted to reduce my single-use plastic usage. However, it was hard to find everything I wanted in a deodorant, and the ones I found that met my criteria cost an arm and a leg and then did NOT work! It was mortifying to start smelling myself halfway through the workday!
So I decided to make my own. What I've found, is that my own homemade deodorant costs pennies and lasts ALL DAY!
The Recipe:
1 cup coconut oil.
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup baking soda.
Optional: Essential oils of choice
If you opt for essential oils, make sure you choose a high quality. I've found that essential oils irritate my skin, so I leave them out.
Instructions
Melt the coconut oil either in a double boiler in the microwave.
Mix in the cornstarch, baking soda, and essential oils (if you opted for essential oils). Make sure to mix very thoroughly.
Let cool either on the counter or in the refrigerator.
You're all done! We usually make this recipe in a small mason jar, and just apply with our fingers.
A few notes:
1. Some people find that certain ingredients are irritants.
The original recipe works perfectly for our family, so we've never had a reason to make any substitutions. But, I would recommend making a small batch at first just to see if you do have any reactions.
Baking soda can be substituted with magnesium hydroxide powder.
Cornstarch can be substituted with arrowroot.
2. This deodorant might cause irritation if applied immediately after shaving armpits. I usually wait an hour or more before applying, and I have no problems. In a pinch, I have applied it directly after, and I only experience mild irritation about 1/3 of the time.
3. This recipe only last about 24 hours. Many conventional deodorants last 48 hours, so don't be surprised when you need to wash and reapply.
4. If you're hoping to apply this deodorant after you're already a little musty (or very smelly), it will not work. It's a preventative but does not cover or mask an existing stench. This has rarely been a problem for me, but I did find myself washing out my armpits in my sister-in-law's bathroom sink one Christmas morning due to poor planning.
5. Because the base of this recipe is coconut oil, it will soften in warm temperatures and become very hard in cool temperatures. It is still just as effective though in either state.
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Making your own homemade deodorant is a great way to avoid the use of potentially harmful chemicals and fragrances found in store-bought deodorants. Whether you are looking for an all-natural solution or just want to save some money, homemade deodorant is a great option.
Want to learn more about non-toxic living? Visit my post here on 6 Ways to Reduce Everyday Exposure to Toxins.
And see my post on Why Switch to Non-toxic Household Items?
