This recipe makes an easy to apply paste, and it’s great because it’s made with ingredients you likely have in your kitchen. Most things I read about homemade deodorants say that arrowroot is preferable, but I used cornstarch when I made it since that’s what I had on hand. This is a small recipe, since I wanted to make a couple different ones with essential oil blends, though it is easily doubled.
This recipe is perfect for the cooler weather we’re having. In the summer it will likely be necessary to add a couple melted tablespoons to the coconut oil before mixing to make it firmer since coconut turns into a liquid at 76 degrees.
Ingredients:
• 3 tbs. coconut oil
• 2 tbs. baking soda
• 2 tbs. arrowroot powder or organic (non-GMO) cornstarch
• 10 drops of essential oils (you can adjust the amount more or less depending on how strong of a scent you prefer)
My favorite oils to use in this are a mixture of patchouli and cedarwood since I love their scent, but you can use whichever oils you prefer. If you have issues with body odor, adding a few drops of tea tree oil to the mixture can be beneficial. I would avoid cinnamon and citrus oils however, since they may be irritating.
Also, some people find that baking soda bothers their skin. If you find that to be the case, reduce the amount of baking soda in the recipe to see if that takes care of the issue. Additionally, if you apply this deodorant right after shaving under your arms, it may sting. It’s best to wait 30 minutes after shaving under arms before applying if you have sensitive skin.
Directions:
Combine baking soda and arrowroot/cornstarch in a medium bowl and mix thoroughly.
Add in coconut oil and mix with a fork until well mixed, breaking up any lumps in the coconut oil.
Mix in essential oils
Store in small jar or container with a lid and apply as needed!