All-Natural DIY Deodorant

If you’re anything like me, the need for deodorant in summer is an unavoidable seasonal product. Between the hazy humid Mississippi days and my daily workout routine, I need to keep deodorant stocked-up in our home. But in an effort to maintain a more zero waste household I make my own. So here’s a little as to why I make my own DIY, All-Natural Deodorant blend.

Over the past year, while on a journey to better health, I knew I wanted to switch my deodorant from my proven commercial brand, in an attempt to avoid cancer and Alzheimer’s causing aluminum byproducts. The issue for me came to price. I knew I wanted to look into better, more organic deodorant brands, but with prices exceeding four times the amount of my previous brands, this was simply not an affordable, non-couponed option.

So what to do? Either sweat like a horse or subject myself and my family to the possible long-term development of Alzheimers and breast cancer? Fortunately, through trial and error, I was able to create my own natural homemade deodorant recipe that works as both a deodorant and antiperspirant and is still all-natural and affordable.

I will admit that I’ve also tried several natural deodorant products and for me, they didn’t work. At all. And many natural deodorants costs four times the prices of my previous brand, it was a natural progression for me to try to make my own blend. And guess what? After a few weeks of using natural, I noticed an unexpected side effect. Natural deodorant helped prevent sweat more than my previous commercial brand. So, now I’m a user for life!

What I love most about this blend is that you can customize your deodorant to your scent preferences with essential oils, if desired or omit them for an unscented version. It’s also quick and easy to make. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

1/3 cup coconut oil
2 tablespoons shea butter or avocado butter
1/3 cup arrowroot powder or organic corn starch
4 tablespoons baking soda (reduce to by half for sensitive skin)
15 drops essential oil

Directions:

Melt coconut oil and shea butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
Stir continuously until melted for 2-4 minutes.
Once completely melted remove from heat and whisk in arrowroot powder (and/or corn starch) and baking soda.
Add essential oils.
Mix thoroughly and quickly. The mixture will start to thicken immediately.
Pour into two empty deodorant containers or mason jars.
Let your homemade deodorant sit until completely set for 2-3 hours at room temperature; this process can be sped up by putting your deodorant in the fridge for ten minutes.
Place lid on and use as you would any other deodorant.
Use within one year.

Some people react negatively to the baking soda and develop a rash or underarm discoloring. If this happens to you, I’d suggest stopping using the natural deodorant until you are able to resolve the issue. Many people cut the baking soda amount in half and notice that the irritation goes away.
Before starting a natural deodorant a DIY mask of bentonite clay armpit detox can help pull out some of the chemicals from past deodorant that led to rashes.
If allergic to coconut oil you can just omit this step. Coconut oil can also be substituted for almond, jojoba or avocado oil.

Everyone, I urge you to try making your own deodorant. You’ll feel better knowing you weren’t putting anything on your skin that you shouldn’t be in contact with, and your wallet will thank you too! If you do try it, let me know the outcome! I’d love to hear your story!

Here’s to natural products,

Nicole

Welcome, savvy savers! My name is Nicole, and I'm the LadyPrefers2Save. We believe in making the minimalist mindset manageable, through budgeting, upcycling, & healthy menu planning. I thank you for stopping by and giving us the opportunity to help you prefer to save, too!