Concerned about the presence of chemicals in commercial deodorants? Opt for a natural alternative instead. Baking soda is an effective deodorant that provides lasting freshness for up to 24 hours. You can utilize it in various ways: by applying a baking soda and water mixture, creating a paste using baking soda, arrowroot powder, coconut oil, and essential oils, or concocting a deodorizing spray from baking soda, aloe vera, witch hazel, and essential oils. Regardless of your preference, these natural deodorants will keep you feeling fresh and odor-free.
Steps
Using Baking Soda and Water
Dispense ⅛ teaspoon of baking soda into your palm.
Adding ¼ teaspoon of water to your palm. Begin by dissolving the baking soda in water. Add ¼ teaspoon (1.2 mL) of water to your palm, ensuring the mixture feels slick. Adjust the water or baking soda quantity as necessary.
Applying the mixture to your underarms. Massage the homemade deodorant onto each underarm using your palms. Allow it to air dry before dressing.
Washing your hands. After making and applying your deodorant, wash your hands with warm water and soap to eliminate any baking soda residue.
Creating a Deodorizing Paste
Blending baking soda and arrowroot powder. Combine 2 tablespoons (29.5 g) of baking soda with 1/3 cup (50 g) of arrowroot powder in a mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly with a spoon.
- Arrowroot powder is available at health stores and online retailers.
- If arrowroot powder is unavailable, substitute it with cornstarch.
Incorporate ⅓ cup of coconut oil.
Add ⅓ cup (50 g) of coconut oil to the powder blend. Blend the mixture until it achieves a thick paste consistency. If needed, add an extra tablespoon (0.5 oz.) of coconut oil to reach the desired texture.
- You can purchase coconut oil from grocery stores, health food stores, or online retailers.
Include 10-15 drops of essential oils into the mixture. To impart a pleasant aroma to your deodorant, mix in 10-15 drops of your preferred essential oil. Stir the mixture well to evenly distribute the oil.
- Lavender, peppermint, and tea tree oil are excellent fragrance options.
Transfer the blend into a small container. Use a spatula to place the deodorant into a small container or jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store the mixture in a cool, dark location when not in use.
- Your homemade deodorant should remain effective for up to 3 months.
Apply the paste to your underarms. Gently massage a small amount of the paste onto your underarms using your fingertips. Wait for up to five minutes before dressing to prevent smudging the paste onto your clothing.
Crafting a Baking Soda Spray
Combine baking soda, witch hazel, and aloe vera in a spray bottle. Mix ½ teaspoon (2.5 g) of baking soda, ½ cup (118 mL) of witch hazel, and ¼ cup of aloe vera (59 mL) in a spray bottle.
- You can purchase witch hazel and aloe vera from grocery stores, health food stores, or online retailers.
Include up to 10 drops of essential oil. Enhance the fragrance of your deodorant by incorporating essential oils into the mixture. Choose scents like patchouli, myrrh, tea tree, or lavender.
Agitate the bottle to blend the ingredients. Replace the sprayer on the bottle to prevent spills. Shake the bottle vigorously to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.
Spritz it onto your underarms. Apply this homemade deodorant by shaking the bottle and then spraying a small amount onto your underarms. You can either massage it in or let it air dry before dressing.
Keep the spray in a cool, dry location. When not in use, store the deodorant in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight.
Pointers
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Baking soda is also known as sodium bicarbonate or bicarbonate of soda.
Cautions
- Some individuals may have adverse reactions to baking soda (NaHCO3). Conduct a patch test on your forearm before using it as a deodorant to check for any negative responses.
- If you develop a rash, itching, discomfort, or alterations in your skin, discontinue use immediately.
- Do not mistake baking soda for baking powder, which contains powdered acid.