DIY Deodorants: Make Your Own
Making your own deodorant can be a great alternative to commercial products for many reasons.
Why Make Your Own Deodorant?
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Natural Ingredients: Homemade deodorants typically contain natural, healthier ingredients compared to commercial products.
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Environmentally Friendly: DIY deodorants are more eco-friendly as they require less packaging and contain no propellant gases.
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Cost-Effective: Making your own can be more economical in the long run.
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Custom Scents: You can choose your preferred fragrance when making your own.
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Vegan and Cruelty-Free: You can ensure it's vegan and cruelty-free.
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Experiment and Learn: Making your own deodorant allows you to experiment with different ingredients.
How Long Does Homemade Deodorant Last?
The shelf life depends on the ingredients and storage conditions. Generally, a DIY deodorant lasts between 3 and 12 months.
- Use fresh ingredients with long shelf life
- Ensure all containers and utensils are clean and dry
- Store in a cool, dry place
- Avoid direct contact with hands (use a spatula)
Coconut Oil Deodorant (with Baking Soda)
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp coconut oil (solid)
- 2 tbsp baking soda
- 2 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- 10-15 drops essential oil (e.g., lavender, tea tree, or peppermint)
Instructions
- Melt coconut oil: Gently melt the coconut oil in a small pot over low heat
- Mix dry ingredients: Combine baking soda and starch in a bowl
- Add coconut oil: Pour melted coconut oil into the dry ingredients
- Add essential oils: Add your chosen essential oils drop by drop
- Transfer to container: Pour the paste into a clean container
- Let cool: Allow to solidify for several hours
- Application: Rub a small amount gently under your arms
Coconut Oil Deodorant (without Baking Soda)
For those with sensitive skin who react to baking soda.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp coconut oil (solid)
- 3 tbsp shea butter
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp beeswax (optional, for firmer texture)
- 10-15 drops essential oil
Instructions
- Melt coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax together
- Add cornstarch and stir well
- Add essential oils
- Pour into container and let solidify
Roll-On Deodorant with Witch Hazel
Ingredients
- 60ml witch hazel (hamamelis water)
- 30ml aloe vera gel
- 1 tsp baking soda (optional)
- 10-15 drops essential oil
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients well in a bowl
- Pour into an empty roll-on container
- Apply under arms as needed
Deodorant Powder with Arrowroot
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp arrowroot powder
- 2 tbsp kaolin (white clay)
- 1 tbsp baking soda (optional)
- 10-15 drops essential oil
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients in a bowl
- Add essential oils drop by drop
- Transfer to a clean container
- Apply to underarms as needed with a powder puff or fingers
Tips for Success
- Patch test first: Test on a small skin area before full use
- Adjust ratios: Modify ingredient amounts based on your needs
- Be patient: Your body may need 2-4 weeks to adjust to natural deodorants
- Stay dry: Apply to completely dry skin for best results