Do you like the idea of living a more natural lifestyle? This could mean using hair and skincare products made from natural ingredients, and eating a diet that’s focused on whole, unprocessed foods rather than processed ones. Have you ever considered taking it a step further by switching to homemade deodorant? It might sound unconventional, but making your own deodorant is entirely doable and gives you the advantage of knowing exactly what goes into it, without any synthetic chemicals.
Why consider natural deodorant?
Take a look at the ingredients in your regular deodorant. Have you ever noticed how many of them seem unfamiliar or hard to pronounce? Some of these ingredients can actually be harmful to your health.
Let’s break down a few:
– Aluminum: This ingredient blocks sweat glands to prevent sweating, but it’s been linked to Alzheimer’s disease and hormonal imbalances associated with increased risks of breast and prostate cancer.
– Parabens: Used as preservatives, parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, leading to hormonal disruptions and potential links to breast and prostate cancers.
– Phthalates: These chemicals, used to enhance flexibility and as fragrance ingredients, can interfere with the endocrine system, potentially causing early puberty and increasing the risk of breast cancer later in life.
– Triclosan: Despite being banned by the FDA in hand soaps, triclosan is still allowed in deodorants. It’s an antibacterial chemical that disrupts hormones and is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer.
This is just a glimpse into what you might find in conventional deodorants, but it’s clear that opting for a natural alternative can be beneficial for your health.
What you’ll need to make your own DIY deodorant
– Unrefined coconut oil: This oil contains antibacterial properties, thanks to fatty acids like lauric acid. It helps reduce the bacteria causing odor in your armpits, keeping you feeling fresh and clean.
– Unrefined shea butter: Another antibacterial ingredient, shea butter is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores. It also adds moisture to the formula, keeping your skin hydrated.
– Arrowroot powder/flour: Highly absorbent, arrowroot powder helps soak up excess sweat, effectively acting as an antiperspirant. If you can’t find arrowroot powder, tapioca starch can be used as a substitute.
– Baking soda: Known for its effectiveness in fighting body odor and absorbing sweat, baking soda should be used cautiously as it can potentially irritate the skin. You can start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
– Lavender essential oil: Primarily added for scent, lavender essential oil can be substituted with other essential oils or omitted for an unscented option.
– Grapefruit essential oil: Similar to lavender oil, grapefruit essential oil can be replaced with another scent or left out for a fragrance-free deodorant.
– Tea tree essential oil (optional): Tea tree oil is antibacterial and helps combat odor effectively. However, some people may be sensitive to it, so it’s essential to test a small amount on your skin before adding it to the mixture. While not necessary, tea tree oil is a nice addition if you’re not sensitive to it, as it targets the bacteria in your underarms responsible for odor.
You’ll also need a small glass jar with a lid or empty deodorant sticks/containers to store your homemade deodorant.
How to make your own DIY deodorant:
Step 1: Start by placing coconut oil and shea butter in a glass bowl or jar. Put the bowl or jar inside a medium saucepan to create a makeshift double boiler. Add enough water to the saucepan to surround the bowl or jar without overflowing it. Bring the water to a boil. While the water heats up, stir the coconut oil and shea butter until they melt completely.
Step 2: Once melted, add in the arrowroot starch, baking soda, and essential oils.
Step 3: Transfer the mixture into a 3-ounce jar and allow it to cool at room temperature or in the fridge (it will harden faster in the fridge) until it reaches a solid consistency. Once solidified, cover the jar with a lid until ready to use.
How to use your DIY deodorant
– Lightly wet your underarms (this helps with even application).
– Scoop out a pea-sized amount using a wooden scoop or your fingers. Rub the deodorant between your fingers before applying it directly to your underarms.
– For a regular day, one application in the morning should suffice. On hotter days, after workouts, or if you’re particularly sweaty, feel free to reapply as needed.
Here are answers to some common questions about natural deodorant
1. How long does this natural deodorant last?
If stored in a cool, dry place, this natural deodorant can last 6-12 months.
2. How much natural deodorant should I use?
Just a pea-sized amount is enough. A little goes a long way.
3. Will I need to reapply?
Depending on your body and level of activity, you may need to reapply. This natural deodorant doesn’t stop sweat entirely since it’s not an antiperspirant. However, it can reduce sweat and offer odor protection for several hours or throughout the day.
4. Do I need an adjustment period to natural deodorant?
Your armpits may need time to adjust to the switch. Start by using this DIY Natural Deodorant 1-2 days a week and gradually increase.
5. What if my skin reacts to natural deodorant?
Some people may experience skin irritation, especially to tea tree and baking soda. Wait at least 6 hours after shaving before applying this natural deodorant. If you have sensitive skin, consider omitting tea tree and reducing the amount of baking soda.
6. Help! My DIY Deodorant won’t harden
Try refrigerating it. If it hardens in the fridge, your home might be too warm, and you’ll need to store it in the fridge to keep it solid. Make sure you didn’t use fractionated coconut oil, which won’t harden. You’ll need to remake the recipe with non-fractionated coconut oil.
7. How long will this natural deodorant last?
It typically lasts 3-6 months, depending on the season and how often you reapply.
8. Can I use different essential oils?
Yes, you can use any essential oils you prefer. Some suggestions include eucalyptus, chamomile, or bergamot.
