One item I’ve struggled with for years to replace is deodorant. The dreaded antiperspirant that contains many harmful ingredients was added onto the “Do Not Use” list a long time ago. Finding a natural deodorant replacement has been an ongoing search.
The more conventional products I’ve cut our of my daily routine, the more sensitive I’ve become to harsh chemicals that were still used. Returning to a regular store brand will result in worse body odor and stinging shortly after application.
I’m ashamed of how many natural based products I’ve purchased, didn’t care for, and never used to completion.
The journey has led me to try many different recipes of “Do It Yourself Deodorants” that have been another avenue of disappointment.
Most DIY natural recipes call for ingredients that are simply too harsh for my skin. Cornstarch and baking soda varieties will work for short periods of time, but long term end in red and irritated skin.
This recipe is so far the only one I’ve come up with that reacts well with my skin (and has so for several months). I have found I do not need to apply numerous times throughout the day, it doesn’t feel heavy on the skin, and the scent is quite pleasant!
Harmful Effects of Antiperspirants
There are many studies over the past two decades that have shown harmful effects of antiperspirants. The body uses sweat to expel certain waste products and toxins from the body. An antiperspirant works with aluminum salts forming a gel on the skin, blocking the sweat gland and reducing the release of sweat from the body.
Some harmful effects include:
- Hormone disruption
- Changes in microbial population
- Skin irritation by sensitivity or allergic reactions
- Absorption of parabens into the skin
Why does sweating produce odor?
There are certain bacteria on your skin that react with certain chemicals excreted in your sweat. Stress, poor diet, and other underlying health issues can increase the amount of odor because of what is excreted by your glands.
Tips for Success
- Start out making small batches. This way you aren’t wasting too much time or ingredients if you don’t end up caring for the recipe.
- Use less “starchy” ingredients to begin with, if you notice it’s not quite covering all the body odor, gently warm your mixture and add in a little more.
- Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water.
- Change your diet.
Ingredients
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- 1/4-1/2 cup of arrowroot powder (this is the starchy ingredient that helps absorb extra moisture)
- 1/2 cup melted organic coconut oil
- 30-40 drops of essential oils (I prefer a mix of lavender and tea tree oil from Young Living. Message me if you’re interested in getting your essential oils for wholesale price!)
- Widemouth half-pint jars (I love these decorative ones, so you can reach the product easier for application)
Directions
- In a glass or stainless steel bowl, mix the arrow root powder and melted coconut oil. Use a fork to stir and mix until it’s blended together well and there aren’t any pockets of dry powder left.
- Allow mixture to sit and lightly cool off. You don’t want the coconut oil to harden, but if it’s too warm the essential oils won’t last as long after you mix them in.
- Add in your essential oils and mix well.
- Pour into your glass jar and store in the fridge for 30 minutes. (Do not put the lid on until after you have finished refrigerating!)
- To use, apply a small amount onto your armpits and surrounding areas as needed!