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If you are looking for an easy way to make your life a little greener , try making your own stick of deodorant. Homemade stick deodorant is an inexpensive, safe and natural alternative to the harsh chemicals and irritating fragrances found in store-bought deodorants. This recipe uses a natural moisture absorber ( cornstarch ), a natural deodorizer (baking soda), and a natural anti-bacterial/anti-fungal oil (tea tree oil) to keep you feeling fresh and smelling good.

Ingredients

Recipe One: Standard Formula

  • 1/4 cup (55 g) baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
  • 1/4 cup (32 g) cornstarch
  • 10 drops tea tree oil
  • 2+ tbsp (30 g) coconut oil, melted


Recipe Two: For Sensitive Skin

  • 2 tbsp (30 g) baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
  • 6 tbs (72 g) cornstarch (if you have very sensitive skin, substitute arrowroot powder)
  • 10 drops tea tree oil
  • 2+ tbsp (30 g) coconut oil, melted

Optional

  • Additional essential oils for fragrance, according to your preference.
  • Up to 1 tsp. Vitamin E or sweet almond oil, to soothe shaved skin.
  1. Mix well. [1]
  2. Stir until the mixture is smooth. If you are adding optional skin soothers like Vitamin E or sweet almond oil, add it during this step. [2]
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  3. Make sure the base is twisted all the way down to the bottom. It may seem soft at first, but should set up after a few days. [3]
  4. You can easily vary the fragrance of your deodorant by using different essential oils in place of the tea tree oil. [4]
    • Lavender, rose, eucalyptus or sandalwood are good choices because they share the anti-bacterial properties of tea tree oil. Chamomile, a known skin soother, would also work well.
    • Start with just a few drops. Add a little more at a time until your deodorant has the scent you want.
  5. Apply this deodorant in the same manner you would the store-bought kind. A little goes a long way, so use a lighter hand than you usually would. [5]
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Expert Q&A

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      Tips

      • If you don't want to use a previously-used deodorant container, search online to source brand new ones.
      • Instead of coconut oil, you can use any oil that is solid at room temperature - shea butter , cocoa butter, mango butter or vegetable shortening.
      • The coconut oil used in this recipe begins to melt at 76 degrees. If the weather is warm, store your deodorant in the refrigerator.
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      Warnings

      • Always know the effects of essential oils. Some smell great but are very irritating to the skin. Take extra precautions if you are pregnant or nursing.
      • Do not use this deodorant recipe if you know you are allergic to any of the ingredients.
      • If you develop irritation, a rash or itching under your arms, stop using this product.
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      Things You'll Need

      • A mixing bowl and spoon
      • An empty deodorant stick container


      Expert Interview

      Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about natural health, check out our in-depth interview with Ritu Thakur, MA .

      About This Article

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      Reader Success Stories

      • Waiz Shaikh

        Jun 6, 2016

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