In recent years, more people have become aware of the hidden dangers in everyday products, and deodorant is no exception. Most conventional deodorants and antiperspirants are packed with harmful ingredients that we apply daily, right on top of one of the most sensitive areas of our body—the underarms, near the lymph nodes and breast tissue. These products work, but is it worth the risk when there are healthier alternatives?

The Problem with Chemical Deodorants 💀

Chemical deodorants often contain preservatives, aluminum, artificial fragrances, parabens, talc, and stabilizers, all of which can have serious health implications. For example, aluminum, a key ingredient in antiperspirants, blocks sweat but can also be absorbed into the body, potentially causing harm to those with kidney issues. The FDA even requires a warning for people with kidney disease due to the aluminum content in antiperspirants.

Parabens, commonly used as preservatives, mimic estrogen in the body, which is a hormone linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Talc, another common ingredient, adds texture but has been found to be contaminated with asbestos in the past, a known cancer-causing compound.

While some scientists debate whether these chemicals definitively contribute to the rise in breast cancer diagnoses, it’s clear to many that applying toxins daily isn’t the wisest choice when there are healthier alternatives available.

Making the Switch to Natural Deodorant

When I first decided to ditch the chemical-filled products, I thought switching to store-bought natural deodorants would be an easy fix. However, I soon found that even most "natural" brands still contain artificial fragrances, preservatives, and other questionable ingredients. One brand I found that I liked was Schmidts (the jar version, not the stick), but it came at a high price, which led me to explore homemade deodorant options. Not only are these DIY options cleaner, but they’re also more affordable.

The Detox Period 🫧

If you’ve been using chemical deodorants for years, be prepared for a potential detox period when you switch to natural alternatives. During this time, you may experience increased odor and irritation as your body eliminates built-up toxins from your underarm area. This phase is temporary and can be managed with a few simple strategies.

To help speed up the detox process, try increasing activities that promote sweating, such as exercise, yoga, or even spending time in a sauna. Herbs like eucalyptus, ginger, peppermint, tulsi, and yarrow can also help induce sweating, aiding in toxin elimination. Additionally, techniques like dry brushing, gua sha, and massage can support the lymphatic system, helping your body adjust to the change.

My Recipes’ Nontoxic Ingredients

Each ingredient in this homemade deodorant recipe (shown below) was chosen not only for its function in the recipe but also for its benefits. Most of the ingredients can be switched out if you have an allergy or sensitivity.

• Coconut Oil: Known for its antibacterial properties, coconut oil helps to kill the bacteria that cause odor. Its moisturizing qualities also make it gentle on the skin, reducing irritation. Optional: infuse herbs like lavender, lemon balm or chamomile in the coconut oil for a nice essential oil free scent.

• Shea Butter: A nourishing butter, shea helps to hydrate and soothe the skin, reducing the likelihood of irritation during the detox period. Shea butter has a texture that helps the deodorant spread easier when applied.

• Beeswax: This natural wax adds structure to the deodorant and helps it work better as a stick, rather than being a paste. You can leave this out, but know that it will have a more pastey texture.

• Arrowroot Powder: A natural absorbent, arrowroot powder helps to keep the underarms dry by absorbing excess moisture while allowing the skin to breathe. Adding it helps make your deo more spreadable like the texture of modern chemical deodorant. You can use cornstarch instead if you want, as it’s got a very similar texture. I use Arrowroot powder because corn is often contaminated with mold.

• Baking Soda: This common household ingredient is excellent at neutralizing odor by balancing the pH of your skin. Odor-causing bacteria cannot live when the PH is too alkaline. It can cause skin irritation for some people, but the amount you add will impact the odor-fighting ability of your end product. The amount I add to mine is shown below. You can always remelt your deo and add some more if you feel it’s not quite scent-fighting enough.

• Essential Oils: If added, essential oils provide a more natural fragrance and offer additional antibacterial benefits. Unfortunately, EOs can also act as endocrine dysrupters, are not sustainable (lots of plant matter needed for a single drop) and there is a lack of transparency with the entire industry. I don’t feel comfortable recommending them, but I know they are popular so I am adding them here optionally.

By using this simple recipe, you’re not only avoiding harmful chemicals but also benefiting from the natural properties of each ingredient. Plus, you have the flexibility to adjust the recipe based on your skin’s needs.

This recipe makes approximately one 3oz tube of deodorant. I recommend weighing your ingredients instead of using measuring cups/spoons because even small variations in the amounts can throw off the texture of your recipe.

Ingredients:

• 20g Coconut Oil (Kirkland Signature, Coconut Oil 84 fl oz) (infused with herbs, if desired)

• 10g Shea butter

• 25g Beeswax (I used Sky Organics*)

• 20g Arrowroot Powder (I used Micronutrients*)

• 20g Baking Soda (Arm & Hammer 13.5lbs bag from Costco)

• Optional: 5-15 drops Essential Oils (Mountain Rose Herbs* or The Bradford Market)

* Affiliate links

Tools & Supplies:

• Kitchen scale

• Small whisk or metal fork

• Heat source to melt your fats & wax

• Heat-safe bowl

• Cooking pot to heat water for the double boiler

• Spatula

• Deodorant containers - Paper Push-up Tubes I used*

• Metal spoon

Instructions:

1. Melt: Combine coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler. Stir until fully melted and clear. You can also use a microwave to melt your ingredients, if that’s easier. 

2. Prepare Containers: Ready your deodorant container(s) by ensuring they are clean and dry.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients: Add arrowroot powder and baking soda to the melted mixture. Stir well to eliminate clumps and ensure a uniform texture.

4. Add Essential Oils: If using, stir in essential oils until well incorporated.

5. Pour and Set: Pour the mixture into the container(s). Let sit for 2-3 minutes before moving to a cool place to firm up.

Notes: You can adjust up or down any of the ingredients in this recipe to change the texture or effects of the deodorant. For example, if I wanted to make a batch that was applied by hand from a jar instead of a tube, I would add more coconut oil.

Another example would be if I wanted more odor control, I would add a couple more grams of baking soda and/or essential oils. You can always add a little at a time, and then test out the hardened texture on a spoon from the freezer.

This recipe can also be made with a microwave instead of the stove-top double boiler method. Just heat your beeswax and coconut oil in short increments, mixing in between until it’s melted, then proceed with the rest of the recipe as normal.