Switching to a natural deodorant is one of the easiest swaps you can make for a less toxic home and body.
There are so many recipes for deodorant out there, I have not tried making them because I am busy making other things! So many companies now making natural deodorants. I figure they have a leg up on me with research so I might as well save my time and buy them already done for me.
If you would like to try your hand at making a natural deodorant, here is a recipe:
Homemade Natural Deodorant
- 1/3 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup arrowroot powder
- Essential oils (optional, but you could use tea tree oil, sweet orange, cinnamon, etc.)
Directions:
- Mix baking soda and arrowroot powder in a bowl.
- Add coconut oil and use a fork to blend into the dry ingredients.
- Put in 5-10 drops of your chosen essential oil (I used tea tree oil).
- Add more coconut oil or baking soda to achieve your desired consistency.
- To apply, use your fingers to scoop out a pea-size amount of the deodorant and massage it into your armpits daily or as needed. Allow a minute or two for the deodorant to set before getting dressed. Recipe adapted from Healthy Holistic Living.
Just remember this is not like the deodorant you are used to, since they do not have the chemicals in them they are not “antiperspirant” you might sweat but you will not stink.
This might be an adjustment for you, but know that sweating is actually good for you. It is your body’s natural way to cool itself, and many people believe it also helps the body release toxins.
Sweating keeps you healthy.
If making your own is not your thing, here are the natural deodorants I have tried and loved. It can be hard to find a good unscented natural deodorant, and the last two come in an unscented option:
- Just Ingredients Deodorant
- Primally Pure Sensitive Unscented Deodorant
- AKT Deodorant Balm (Unscented)
Other options for deodorant include:
Cutting and using a fresh lime, just rub it on right after you shower or even use lime essential oil and rub a couple drops on clean skin. They both dry and absorb quickly, so give some of these a try! Especially for women this is a must switching this out.
Why Switch to a Natural Deodorant?
Most conventional antiperspirants use aluminum compounds to block your sweat glands, and many are full of synthetic fragrance. Many people prefer to avoid these and use simple, plant-based ingredients instead. A natural deodorant does not stop you from sweating, but it helps keep odor away, which is really what we want.
Tips for Making the Switch
- Give it a few weeks. Many people find there is an adjustment period when they first switch. Stick with it.
- Apply to clean, dry skin. It works best right after a shower.
- Sensitive to baking soda? Some people get red or itchy skin from baking soda. Try a baking soda-free formula, or use more arrowroot and less baking soda in the recipe.
- Stay hydrated and eat well. What you eat can affect how you smell.
- Wear breathable fabrics like cotton and linen.
A Note on Lime
Lime is a great natural option, but be careful in the sun. Fresh lime juice and cold-pressed lime oil on the skin can cause a painful burn-like rash when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Use lime under your arms only, wash your hands well after using it, and avoid getting it on skin that will be in the sun. Steam-distilled lime oil does not have this effect.
For more simple swaps, see my post on non toxic nails and the Make a Switch page.
