There has been suspicion in the last few years of aluminum-containing antiperspirants being linked to higher risk of breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. While there seem to be more studies denying the link than confirming it, there are still many excellent reasons to make your own deodorant at home.
Firstly, antiperspirants are made to stop you from sweating, which is one of the most natural, healthiest things to do! There is a false perception that the more you sweat, the smellier you will be. However, it is not the actual sweat that makes you smell…It’s the bacterium that live on your skin that digest what comes out of your sweat. Besides deodorant, a healthy lifestyle and basic hygiene do more to keep you smelling good than antiperspirants.
Secondly, making your own deodorant is a great choice for the environment! With every batch you make, you are preventing one more piece of plastic from polluting our ocean. You can re-use the jars the hold your deodorant, or even upcycle an empty deodorant applicator from a previous purchase.
Thirdly, making your own products is empowering. Taking care of yourself does not have to be something that is dictated to you by the products in our marketplace. You can take hold of how you smell and the types of substances you put on your body.
I have provided here three different recipes for three different deodorants. Each recipe takes into account different skin types, but you should feel free to mix, match, and experiment however you wish. Coconut oil is a good general carrier for the essential oils that give you the scent but it needs some beeswax to help it stay a little more solid. Baking soda works to neutralize odors but can be a little harsh for certain skin types. The shea butter recipe accounts for sensitive skin. Shea butter needs a little help being creamy, so I’ve added cocoa butter to soften it up, and replaced the baking soda with milder arrowroot powder. Lastly, the witch hazel recipe is for those of us who do not wish to mess with oil and are looking for a simple solution while not having to worry too much about skin drying out. I hope this helps you find the right solution for your body. Happy Crafting!
Coconut Oil Deodorant: for normal skin
Ingredients
- 5 Tablespoons coconut oil
- 1/4 teaspoon beeswax
- 3 Tablespoons baking soda
- 30 drops essential oils (suggested: patchouli, lime, orange, rosemary, sage)
Directions
- Take the first three ingredients and melt them together either in the microwave with a microwave safe glass container or a double boiler. Remove from heat once the oils and waxes are melted—be sure not to boil them!
- Take a whisk and whip the ingredients together until they are fully incorporated. For an extra good incorporation, whip the ingredients together in a blender.
- Add your choice of essential oils and stir to combine.
- Pour into your container of choice. You can use an empty deodorant applicator from a previous purchase if you would rather apply the deodorant without using your fingertips. (Deodorant applicators have a catchment level in them that you then use to push the stick up as it is used. Be sure that this level is rolled all the way to the bottom of the container before pouring in your batch of deodorant. Once the mixture cools, it will solidify just enough and you will be able to once again twist the bottom of the applicator, pushing the stick up as you use it. Did you know that deodorant applicators we re-useable this whole time?) If you feel good about applying the deodorant with your fingertips, then you can simply pour the mixture into a wide-mouthed jar to let it cool.
Shea Butter Deodorant: for dry and sensitive skin
Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons shea butter
- 2 Tablespoons cocoa butter
- 3 Tablespoons arrowroot powder
- 30 drops essential oils (suggested: cedar, ginger, vanilla, thyme)
Directions
- Take the first three ingredients and melt them together either in the microwave with a microwave safe glass container or a double boiler. Remove from heat once the oils and waxes are melted—be sure not to boil them!
- Take a whisk and whip the ingredients together until they are fully incorporated. For an extra good incorporation, whip the ingredients together in a blender.
- Add your choice of essential oils and stir to combine.
- Pour into your container of choice. You can use an empty deodorant applicator from a previous purchase if you would rather apply the deodorant without using your fingertips. (Deodorant applicators have a catchment level in them that you then use to push the stick up as it is used. Be sure that this level is rolled all the way to the bottom of the container before pouring in your batch of deodorant. Once the mixture cools, it will solidify just enough and you will be able to once again twist the bottom of the applicator, pushing the stick up as you use it. Did you know that deodorant applicators we re-useable this whole time?) If you feel good about applying the deodorant with your fingertips, then you can simply pour the mixture into a wide-mouthed jar to let it cool.
Witch Hazel Deodorant: for normal to oily skin
This recipe is by far the most straightforward. The only thing you will need is a misting spray bottle. You can buy empty versions of these or search around the house to find one to repurpose. If you cannot find a spray bottle, keeping this deodorant in a jar and applying it with your fingers, a cotton wipe or a cloth will work just dandy!
Ingredients
- 8 oz. witch hazel extract astringent (store bought or homemade)
- 1 Tablespoon baking soda
- 60 drops essential oils (lavender, orange, rose, lemongrass, sage)
Directions
- Measure your witch hazel extract into your container.
- Add baking soda and shake until dissolved.
- Add essential oils.
- Shake the jar before each use to continue to emulsify the oils with the witch hazel.
Suggested essential oil combinations
- Orange and Patchouli
- Orange and Lavender
- Lemongrass and Rose
- Cedarwood and Sage
- Ginger and Vanilla
- Rosemary and Lime
- Pre-made blends are also beautiful!
