8 Natural DIY Deodorant Alternatives and How to Make Them

More people are turning to natural DIY deodorant alternatives as concerns about the chemicals in store-bought deodorants grow. These natural options can help reduce exposure to aluminum, parabens, and other synthetic ingredients while being kinder to the environment. Plus, making your own deodorant allows you to control exactly what goes on your skin. Let’s dive into eight simple and effective natural DIY deodorant alternatives and how you can make them at home.

Why Switch to Natural Deodorant?

Many conventional deodorants contain ingredients like aluminum, parabens, and synthetic fragrances, which some studies suggest may be harmful. Aluminum, for instance, is used to block sweat glands, but there are concerns about its long-term health effects. Parabens, often used as preservatives, have been linked to hormone disruption. While the research is still ongoing, these potential risks are enough for many to seek safer alternatives.

Beyond health concerns, there’s also the environmental impact of commercial deodorants. The plastic packaging, non-biodegradable ingredients, and energy-intensive production processes make many deodorants unsustainable. Switching to homemade, natural deodorants reduces waste and reliance on chemical-laden products.

What Makes a Good DIY Deodorant?

A successful DIY deodorant should be effective at controlling odor, gentle on the skin, and free from harmful chemicals. Natural ingredients like baking soda, coconut oil, essential oils, and arrowroot powder are common in DIY recipes because they fight bacteria and absorb moisture. Many people also seek deodorants that don’t irritate sensitive skin, making ingredients like shea butter and aloe vera important for soothing and moisturizing.

1. Baking Soda and Coconut Oil Deodorant

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of baking soda
• 2 tablespoons of arrowroot powder or cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons of coconut oil
• A few drops of your favorite essential oil (optional)

Benefits: Baking soda is a powerful odor fighter, while coconut oil has antibacterial properties. Arrowroot powder helps absorb moisture, keeping your underarms dry.

How to Make It:

1. Mix the baking soda and arrowroot powder in a bowl.
2. Gradually add melted coconut oil until the mixture forms a paste.
3. Stir in essential oils if you’d like to add a pleasant scent.
4. Transfer the mixture into a jar and apply a small amount under each arm.

Tip for Sensitive Skin: If baking soda is too harsh, reduce the amount or replace it with more arrowroot powder.

2. Arrowroot Powder and Shea Butter Deodorant

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup of shea butter
• 1/4 cup of arrowroot powder
• 1/4 cup of coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon of baking soda
• Essential oils (optional)

Why It Works: Shea butter and coconut oil nourish and moisturize the skin, while arrowroot powder absorbs moisture and controls odor.

Instructions:

1. Melt the shea butter and coconut oil together over low heat.
2. Remove from heat and stir in arrowroot powder and baking soda.
3. Add essential oils for fragrance.
4. Pour into a container and let it cool before applying.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar Spray Deodorant

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup of water
• A few drops of essential oils (optional)

How It Works: Apple cider vinegar balances the skin’s pH and kills odor-causing bacteria, making it an effective deodorizer.

How to Make It:

1. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water.
2. Add a few drops of essential oils for scent.
3. Pour into a spray bottle and apply directly to clean, dry underarms.

4. Lemon Juice Deodorant

Ingredients:

• Freshly squeezed lemon juice

Why It’s Effective: Lemon juice is acidic, which helps kill bacteria responsible for body odor.

How to Use:

1. Cut a fresh lemon and squeeze a small amount of juice onto a cotton pad.
2. Apply directly to your underarms and let it dry.

Precaution: Avoid using lemon juice on freshly shaved skin as it can cause irritation.

5. Aloe Vera and Essential Oils Deodorant

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup of aloe vera gel
• 10 drops of tea tree oil (or another essential oil)

Benefits: Aloe vera is soothing and moisturizing, making it great for sensitive skin. Tea tree oil is antibacterial and provides a fresh scent.

How to Make It:

1. Mix the aloe vera gel with the essential oil.
2. Store in a small jar and apply a thin layer to your underarms.

6. Witch Hazel and Lavender Spray Deodorant

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of witch hazel
• 10 drops of lavender essential oil

How It Works: Witch hazel is an astringent that helps reduce sweating and kill bacteria. Lavender essential oil adds a calming scent while fighting bacteria.

Instructions:

1. Combine the witch hazel and essential oil in a spray bottle.
2. Shake well and spritz onto your underarms as needed.

7. Bentonite Clay and Coconut Oil Deodorant

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of bentonite clay
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
• A few drops of essential oil (optional)

Why It Works: Bentonite clay absorbs toxins and helps detoxify the skin, while coconut oil moisturizes and prevents irritation.

How to Make It:

1. Mix the bentonite clay with coconut oil to form a thick paste.
2. Add essential oils for fragrance if desired.
3. Store in a glass jar and apply as needed.

8. Magnesium Oil Deodorant

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup of magnesium oil
• A few drops of your favorite essential oil

Why It’s Effective: Magnesium helps neutralize body odor by balancing the body’s pH.

How to Make It:

1. Mix the magnesium oil with essential oils for fragrance.
2. Pour into a spray bottle and apply to clean, dry underarms.

How to Customize Your DIY Deodorant

Depending on your skin type, you can tweak these recipes. For sensitive skin, reduce or eliminate baking soda and opt for gentler ingredients like shea butter or aloe vera. You can also experiment with different essential oils to find your perfect scent combination.

How to Store Your DIY Deodorant

Most natural deodorants should be stored in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness. Using airtight glass containers is ideal. The shelf life of DIY deodorants is typically about 3–6 months, depending on the ingredients used.

Potential Side Effects of DIY Deodorants

When switching to natural deodorants, some people experience a detox period where the body adjusts by releasing built-up toxins. This can lead to temporary increased odor or sweating. If you experience irritation, try reducing the amount of baking soda or switching to more soothing ingredients like aloe vera or shea butter.

Conclusion

Making your own natural deodorant is a fantastic way to take control of your skincare routine, avoid harmful chemicals, and reduce waste. With a little experimentation, you can find the perfect recipe that keeps you fresh and comfortable all day long.

FAQs

1. What are the common side effects when switching to natural deodorants?
Some people may experience a detox period with increased odor or sweat as the body adjusts.

2. How long does it take for your body to adjust to natural deodorants?
It can take 1–3 weeks for the body to fully adjust.

3. Can DIY deodorants cause skin irritation?
Yes, ingredients like baking soda can irritate sensitive skin, but adjusting the recipe can help.

4. How can I make my DIY deodorant last longer?
Store it in a cool, dry place, and use airtight containers to extend its shelf life.

5. Is it safe to use essential oils in homemade deodorants?
Yes, but always dilute essential oils properly and do a patch test to avoid allergic reactions.