Did you know that sweating is your body’s natural way of cooling down and getting rid of toxins? However, in conventional deodorants, there are many toxic ingredients such as aluminum, phthalates, and artificial fragrance. To remove the odor after a run or workout, how about making your own DIY deodorant with natural ingredients that you can pronounce?
Making your own deodorant is much easier than you think. Essential oils are a natural and great fit for deodorants as they have properties that help to control odor. While antiperspirants stop you from completely sweating by blocking your pores, essential oils help to open up your pores so that the toxins are released, allowing you to cool down faster.
Make the Most of Your DIY Deodorant
- Avoid wearing clothing made of synthetic fibers. Natural fiber- based clothing such as wool, cotton, or bamboo are recommended.
- It is important to keep your armpits clean to minimize odors.
- It may take awhile before your body is adjusted to a natural deodorant with no toxic ingredients. During the transition period, you may realize that there is an increase in odor, underarm sensitivity, and sweating. All these are temporary so there is no need to worry.
How To Make Your DIY Deodorant
For your DIY deodorant, these are the ingredients you will need:
- 2 ½ tbsp of unrefined coconut oil
- 2 ½ tbsp of unrefined shea butter
- 6 drops of grapefruit essential oil
- 6 drops of lavender essential oil
- ¼ cup of arrowroot starch
- 1 ½ tbsp of baking soda
First, place the shea butter and coconut oil in a glass jar, and place the glass jar in a medium saucepan. Next, add water into the saucepan, bringing it to a boil. Make sure to stir the shea butter and coconut oil until it has melted while the water is being heated. Once melted, add the arrowroot starch, essential oils, and baking soda. Place the mixture in a jar and let it cool in a fridge or at room temperature until it is in a solid state. Lastly, cover it with a lid.
To use this deodorant, simply wet your underarms slightly first. Scoop a small amount and rub between your fingers before applying to your underarms directly.
Essential Oils to Use in Deodorants
Essential oils that are known to contain antibacterial properties are perfect to use in natural DIY deodorants. The antibacterial oils are proven to help prevent and eliminate bacteria growth under the arms, neutralize body odor, cleanse and tighten the skin, as well as impart pleasant scents. Some of the most popular oils to use in natural deodorants are bergamot, clove, grapefruit, lemongrass, peppermint, and orange essential oil. For instance, the antifungal, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiseptic properties of bergamot essential oil make it a great addition to DIY deodorant. It also has an alluring scent that many people love.
Essential oils also have several benefits for the skin, such as anti-inflammatory effects to relieve irritation or properties that help to treat hyperpigmentation in underarms. Some oils have a lighter or stronger scent, and you can blend them for a scent or fragrance that is most suited to your personal preferences or skincare routine.