Create Your Own Natural Deodorant

This is part 7 of a 9-part “DIY Personal Care Products” series originally featured in Epoch Times.

In this series we explore how to save money and lower our toxic burden by harnessing the healing powers of nature through home-made personal care products. By making your own product line, you can avoid the side effects of chemical additives, artificial fragrances, and toxic preservatives commonly found in commercial products.

Article #7: Crafting Your Own Natural Deodorant

by Sina McCullough, PhD

Last week, we concocted homemade face cream. In our quest to prioritize health and navigate the financial challenges posed by inflation, we continue our exploration of DIY personal care items. Today, we immerse ourselves in the art of crafting deodorant.

In this article, we explore the potential dangers of chemicals found in some store-bought deodorants and the advantages of formulating your own.  An all-natural recipe is provided.

Decoding the Hidden Hazards of Conventional Deodorants

Here are some potentially harmful chemicals commonly found in store bought deodorants or antiperspirants:

1. Aluminum Compounds: Aluminum-based compounds, like aluminum chlorohydrate and aluminum zirconium, are frequently added to deodorants because they are antibacterial, which can reduce malodor.  They are also added to antiperspirants because aluminum salts block sweat glands by forming aluminum hydroxide gel plugs in the sweat tubule that prevent sweat from moving toward the skin surface.  However, increasing evidence suggests these aluminum-based compounds accumulate in breast tissue and might contribute to breast cancer, according to a 2005 review article in the Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry. A 2017 study published in EBioMedicine concluded the use of underarm deodorant was significantly associated with risk of breast cancer.

2. Parabens: As synthetic preservatives, parabens prolong the shelf-life of deodorant. Nevertheless, studies have associated parabens with the potential to interfere with hormonal balance by imitating estrogen within the body. This has raised apprehensions about their potential involvement in the initiation of breast cancer. A study conducted in 2004, documented in the Journal of Applied Toxicology, found parabens present in 90% of examined breast tumors. Additionally, a study published in Pharmacological Reports demonstrated that parabens have the capacity to modify the expression of estrogen-responsive genes in human breast cancer cells.

3. Artificial Fragrances: The aromatic scents found in conventional deodorants frequency originate from synthetic fragrances, which can trigger allergic reactions and dermatitis. Fragrances can consist of dozens of chemicals that are not required to be disclosed on the product label.  A 2021 review article in Current Treatment Options in Allergy revealed that some fragrances have shown endocrine-disrupting or neurotoxic effects.  Fragrance ingredients, such as benzophenone and styrene, are listed as possible carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the National Toxicology Program.

4. Propylene Glycol: Used as a texture enhancer and antimicrobial, propylene glycol could cause skin irritation and sensitization in some individuals, according to a study in Contact Dermatitis. 

5. Talc: While cosmetic-grade talc is supposed to be asbestos-free, according to a 2021 review article in New Solutions, “recent evidence reveals that cosmetic talc is not and never was asbestos-free.”  Since asbestos is a known carcinogen, talc may pose a risk for cancer. 

You can avoid these harmful chemicals and protect your health from potential risks associated with long-term exposure by making your own deodorant.

Benefits of Making Your Own Deodorant

By incorporating natural deodorant into your personal care routine, you bestow upon your body an array of advantages in addition to chemical-free assurance, such as:

1. Cost Savings in Inflationary Times: Natural ingredients used in homemade deodorant are often more affordable when purchased in bulk, plus you can reuse containers to further reduce costs. This article includes a recipe for natural deodorant made from organic ingredients.  Using today’s bulk pricing, the deodorant costs 0.55¢ per ounce, which is approximately 1/10th the price of a comparable store-bought organic deodorant and roughly half the price of well-known conventional brands.      

2. Personalized Ingredients and Tailored Formulations: Crafting your own deodorant allows you to choose ingredients that cater to your unique skin needs.  Natural deodorants also tend to be gentler on the skin, making them an excellent option for those with sensitive skin.  Additionally, with essential oils, you can customize the scent of the deodorant to suit your preferences.   

3. Environmental Consciousness:  Preparing your own deodorant promotes a more sustainable lifestyle by reducing plastic waste and the demand for single-use packaging.  Furthermore, natural ingredients are typically biodegradable, minimizing their impact on ecosystems.

DIY Deodorant Recipe

Below is a recipe that harnesses the power of natural ingredients, including:

Coconut Oil:  In addition to moisturizing and soothing the skin, a 2019 study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine concluded that coconut oil protects the skin by enhancing skin barrier function through its ability to suppress inflammation.  

A study published in Archives of Dermatological Research, reported that daily usage of store-bought antiperspirants stimulated odor-producing bacteria.  In contrast, coconut oil contains natural antimicrobial properties that may help rebalance the skin microbiome, which would reduce malodor.  Whether applied topically or ingested,  coconut oil is broken down to lauric acid and monolaurin, which have significant antimicrobial activity against gram positive bacteria, as well as a number of fungi, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society.  

Shea Butter: Due to its fatty acid content, including linoleic, oleic, stearic, and palmitic acids, shea butter is naturally moisturizing.  Shea butter contains antioxidant properties and is a “significant source of anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor promoting compounds,” according to a 2010 study published in the Journal of Oleo Science.  Specifically, several components of shea butter inhibited tumor promoters and one compound in particular, lupeol cinnamate, inhibited skin tumor promotion in vivo.  According to a 2014 study published in Phytochemistry, some constituents of shea butter also demonstrate potent inhibitory activity against melanoma cells (skin cancer).

Baking Soda: Due to its antibacterial properties, baking soda decreases bacterial abundance, which reduces malodor.  It is alkaline, which helps neutralize acids and maintain proper pH for prevention of malodor formation.

ǂEssential Oil: These natural oils add desirable aroma to deodorant while providing health benefits. 

For example, according to 2011 a review article published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, tea tree oil is effective at reducing malodor because it contains terpinen-4-ol, an active anti-microbial agent.  Tea tree oil inhibits bacteria that contribute to malodor, including Corynebacterium spp. and Staphylococcus spp., according to a study published in the American Journal of Infection Control. 

A study published in Food Chemistry concluded thyme is “an inexpensive source of natural antibacterial substances” after determining thyme showed high activity against all tested bacteria, including seven Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains. 

Lavender essential oil provides a pleasing aroma to deodorant, but also contains antimicrobial properties and can reduce anxiety, according to a study published in the International Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry.   

A Word on Ingredient Quality

Choose organic ingredients whenever possible.  Organic means the crop was not genetically modified and was not sprayed with most synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, according to the United States Department of Agriculture.     

In addition to organic, when choosing oils, select products that are 100% pure, cold-pressed, and unrefined. 

Essential oils are sometimes adulterated by adding a similar but cheaper oil or diluting the natural oil with various solvent oils in order to reduce costs.  In 2023, ConsumersAdvocate.org tested 11 peppermint essential oil samples and four were reportedly adulterated.  Therefore, choose essential oils that are 100% pure, do not contain additives or synthetic chemicals, and have been tested for heavy metals, microbes and glyphosate.   

Recipe: Deodorant

Ingredients:

2 Tablespoons shea butter

2 Tablespoons coconut oil

¼ cup baking soda

1/3 cup of arrowroot powder

1-½ teaspoons beeswax

10-15 drops of your favorite essential oilsǂ (I prefer 2 drops Tea Tree essential oil with 8 drops Lavender essential oil) 

Instructions:

1. In a glass bowl, combine beeswax, coconut oil, and shea butter.

2. Melt the mixture over medium-low heat using a double boiler, stirring until well combined.  If you don’t have a double boiler, use the glass bowl and a large pot as a substitute.  When choosing the size of the pot, the glass bowl should fit comfortably over the top of the pot, almost like a lid, but leave enough space between the bottom of the glass bowl and the pot to ensure steam can flow between them. Place water in the bottom of the pot, place the glass bowl containing the ingredients on top of the pot, and simmer until the water steams.      

3. Once all ingredients are melted, remove from heat.

4. Add baking soda and arrowroot powder to the glass bowl, mix thoroughly until smooth preferably using a hand blender.

5. Allow to cool to the touch, mixing occasionally.

6. Add the essential oil of your choice.  Mix until combined. 

7. Pour the mixture into a clean, shallow container or an empty deodorant stick for easy application.

8. Allow the deodorant to cool and solidify before use.  Placing it in the refrigerator will decrease the time required to solidify.  Keep in a cool location, such as the bathroom counter.  Deodorant will melt in the heat.  If that occurs, stir until combined and place in the refrigerator to re-solidify. 

9. To apply, place a small amount on the underarm and let it melt then gently massage into skin using your fingers. 

Contraindications and Precautions

ǂPregnant or breastfeeding women, children under the age of 2, and anyone consuming prescription medications should consult their healthcare provider before using essential oils.  Tea Tree essential oil may cause skin irritation.  In people with acne, it may cause dryness, tiching, burning or redness.  Lavender essential oil can cause skin irritation.  Nausea, vomiting, headache and chills have been reported in some people after inhaling or absorbing lavender through the skin.  Thyme essential oil should be avoided if taking medications for glaucoma, high blood pressure, heart conditions, cancer, epilepsy, bleeding conditions, or liver damage.

Before using the recipe in this article, consult with your health care provider to ensure the ingredients are aligned with your specific health needs.  Always check for sensitivities or adverse reactions by applying a small amount of product.  Do not use the recipe if you are allergic or sensitive to any of the ingredients.   

Final Thoughts

Embracing a DIY natural deodorant empowers you to take charge of your well-being while saving money and reducing the use of plastics.  As you venture into crafting your own personal care products, remember to choose ingredients that best suit your unique needs and preferences.

Stay tuned for our next article, where we'll explore crafting your own natural lip balm - a soothing balm that moisturizes your lips, unburdened by harmful chemicals!