Deodorants are an essential daily product for everyone. However, store-bought deodorants contain chemicals that can have adverse effects on the skin and the body.

That is why more people are searching for natural alternatives to deodorants, which has led to the rise of DIY deodorant recipes. This article provides a simple DIY deodorant recipe that only requires four ingredients.

Why Use a DIY Deodorant?

Store-bought deodorants are convenient, but they often contain harmful chemicals such as aluminum, triclosan, and parabens. These chemicals can block sweat glands, leading to the accumulation of toxins in the body.

Additionally, these chemicals can cause skin irritation, rashes, and allergic reactions. The advantages of using a DIY deodorant recipe are that it is natural, non-toxic, and cost-effective. Moreover, the recipe allows customization to suit individual preferences.

Ingredients

The DIY deodorant recipe requires four ingredients, which are:.

1/4 cup baking soda
1/4 cup cornstarch or arrowroot powder
5-6 tablespoons virgin coconut oil, melted
10-15 drops essential oil of your choice (optional)

Instructions

Follow the following steps to make the DIY deodorant.

Combine the baking soda and cornstarch/arrowroot powder in a bowl. Mix well.
Add the melted coconut oil and stir until all lumps disappear, and a smooth paste forms.
If desired, add the essential oil and mix well.
Pour the mixture into a glass jar with a lid. Store in a cool, dry place.

To apply the DIY deodorant, scoop a pea-sized amount of the mixture using a spoon and rub onto your underarms. The deodorant may feel a bit greasy at first, but it will soon absorb into the skin.

Why These Ingredients Work

The four ingredients in this DIY deodorant recipe serve different purposes.

Baking soda: It helps to neutralize the odor-causing bacteria that thrive on sweat. Baking soda also absorbs moisture, keeping you dry.
Cornstarch/arrowroot powder: It helps to absorb the moisture, leaving you dry. Moreover, it has a soft texture that soothes the skin.
Virgin coconut oil: It provides a pleasant scent and has antimicrobial properties that help to kill bacteria and fungus. It also moisturizes the skin.
Essential oil: The added essential oil gives a pleasant scent and promotes skin health. Tea tree oil is an ideal choice because it has antibacterial properties that help to kill bacteria, but one can also use other essential oils of their preference.

Benefits of Using This DIY Deodorant Recipe

The benefits of using this DIY deodorant recipe include:.

It is natural and non-toxic, unlike store-bought deodorants that contain chemicals such as aluminum, triclosan, and parabens that are harmful to the skin and the body.
It is customizable, allowing one to adjust the ratio of ingredients to suit their preferences.
It is inexpensive, saving money in the long run.
It is effective because it contains ingredients that neutralize odor-causing bacteria and absorb moisture.
It is eco-friendly because it reduces waste since it does not come in a plastic container.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What can I use instead of baking soda?

If you have sensitive skin or react to baking soda, try substituting it with magnesium hydroxide powder or kaolin clay. These ingredients also neutralize odor-causing bacteria.

Is coconut oil necessary?

Yes, coconut oil is essential in this recipe because it provides the mixture with a smooth texture and moisturizes the skin. If you do not have coconut oil, replace it with another carrier oil such as almond oil.

What is the shelf life of this DIY deodorant?

This DIY deodorant recipe lasts up to six months, depending on how frequently it is used. Store it in a cool, dry place to prolong its shelf life.

Can I use this deodorant on sensitive skin?

Yes, this deodorant is gentle enough for sensitive skin. However, if you experience any discomfort or irritation, discontinue use immediately.

How do I know if the DIY deodorant is working?

You will feel dry and odor-free for an extended period, even after sweating. If you feel that the deodorant is not working, you can adjust the ratio of ingredients to suit your needs.

Conclusion

Using a DIY deodorant recipe is a simple way to avoid the harmful chemicals present in store-bought deodorants. This recipe provides a natural, non-toxic, customizable, and cost-effective alternative that is easy to make.

Incorporate this DIY deodorant recipe into your daily routine for healthy, dry, and odor-free underarms.