How to Make Homemade Natural Deodorant Powder

Natural homemade deodorants are a health-conscious alternative to commercially prepared products.

Many consumers have concerns about the health risks of using commercial deodorants and antiperspirants, since many contain ingredients whose safety for use on the human body is controversial, such as aluminum and parabens. An antiperspirant blocks the sweat from the body, while an deodorant changes or masks the odor. Consumers can purchase natural deodorants. Another option is to make your own. It is possible to make your own natural stick deodorant, but even simpler to make a natural deodorant powder mostly of common household ingredients.

Things You'll Need

• Glass jar with lid
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1/2 cup corn starch
• Lavender essential oil
• Cotton ball or powder puff

Instructions

1. Sift together, or mix with a wire whisk, 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup of corn starch. You can also put the two powders in a closed container and shake until they are thoroughly mixed.

2. Add a few drops of essential oil. Since bacteria cause the odor in perspiration, lavender is a good choice for its antibacterial properties as well as its gentleness on the skin. Add four or five drops of essential oil and mix into the powder thoroughly, breaking up any clumps made by the oil.

3. Place the powder in an 8-oz. jar with a lid for storage. Attractive vintage cosmetic jars can be found in thrift stores. Use the product by dipping a cotton ball or powder puff into the powder and apply it to your underarms.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose good quality essential oils since they will be in daily contact with your skin.

• Other oils that might be used because of their antibacterial properties and gentleness are patchouli, peppermint, eucalyptus or rosemary.

References

• Mother Earth News; Recipes to Make Your Own Soap, Lotion and More; Aubrey Vaughn; August/September 2007
• Lewis and Clark College: Become a Conscious Consumer!

Resources

• Snowdrift Farm: Herbal Deodorants