Deodorant is a great product choice for your next low waste swap. This easy recipe will help to remove one more plastic container from your bathroom routine and help you save money.
In many cases, the health benefits of moving away from conventional deodorant are overlooked. Most store-bought deodorants and antiperspirants contain aluminum and synthetic fragrances that clog up the pores in our underarms which help us to remove toxins and naturally cleanse our body. When we apply these substances everyday, our body loses one avenue that it utilizes to release toxins from the body.
As always, we want these alternative options to fit with your lifestyle and support the best version of you! Reducing your exposure to conventional deodorant is still progress. Having a natural option for less active days is a great way to soothe your armpits and give them a break from harsh ingredients, all while smelling fresh!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons shea butter
- 1/4 cup arrowroot powder or cornstarch
- 1/4 cup baking soda (or use magnesium hydroxide if you are sensitive to baking soda)
- 25 drops essential oil blend of your choice*
- 1 tablespoon beeswax or vegan wax (this ingredient is optional; without wax deodorant will be soft in texture)
*Scent Options
- 7 drops sage and 20 drops fir balsam
- 15 drops geranium and 10 drops lemon
- 15 drops tea tree and 10 drops rosemary
Additional equipment
- 4-ounce glass jar, or two 2-ounce glass jars, with lids
Directions
- Heat 3 inches of water in a pot over medium heat. Let it come to a boil, then turn to simmer.
- Add coconut oil, shea butter, and wax to pot and let them melt
- Once melted, remove from heat and let cool until warm but not hot to touch
- Add arrowroot powder and baking soda and mix well
- Stir in essential oils
- Pour into jars and let solidify (helps to pop in the fridge for a couple of hours).
To use, put a little bit on your fingers and apply it under your armpits!
If stored out of direct sunlight, will keep for up to a year.
If you don't have all of the ingredients on hand, buy them in bulk! Not only can you make more deodorant when you run out, we have found that many of these ingredients are used in other DIY body products. Also, making some deodorant for friends and family is a thoughtful, homemade gift.