How to Make Your Own Deodorant

The do-it-yourself movement is experiencing a revival as men and women everywhere are cooking, sewing and building genuine items that money simply can’t buy.

Did you know store bought deodorants have aluminum, parabens and other harsh chemicals? Avoid these toxic ingredients and make your own. They will leave you feeling clean, fresh and chemical-free.

Simply perfect for: Outdoorsy or environmentally minded folks

Long days or intense workouts can take their toll and leave anyone feeling less than fresh. I’ve experimented with all sorts of reputedly strong deodorants and antiperspirants, but I got to thinking that there must be a way to make my own.

Here, witch hazel, along with soothing aloe vera and essential oils of rosemary and lavender (which have antifungal and antiseptic properties, respectively), make for a very effective concoction.

In giving a homemade deodorant, make sure you know the recipient well or else he or she might be offended, thinking you are trying to send them a message about hygiene. If you are concerned that your loved one will get the wrong idea, consider packaging it up with a few other products rather than making it a solo gift.

Natural Deodorant Recipe

You’ll need:

• 1/2 cup (125 ml) distilled water

• 1/4 cup (62.5 ml) witch hazel extract

• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) aloe vera gel

• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) liquid glycerin

• 15 drops rosemary essential oil

• 10 drops lavender essential oil

• Large pot

• Measuring cups

• Measuring spoons

• Metal tongs

• Cookie sheet

• 8-ounce (236 ml) spray bottle

1. Sterilize the bottle and tools in a hot-water bath.

2. Add the distilled water, witch hazel, and aloe vera to the bottle. Put the top on and shake the bottle vigorously. Before the ingredients have a chance to separate, add the glycerin and essential oils. Put the top back on, shake it up, and you are ready to use.

To apply- Shake well and spritz natural deodorant under each arm a couple of times. Wait to dry before getting dressed.

Yield – One 8-ounce (236 ml) spray bottle

Note: This is a deodorant only. It will not help prevent any serious perspiration.

Wrap it up

Use an old hairspray spray pump—clean with hot soapy water to remove residue first—or pick up an inexpensive plastic spray bottle at the drugstore. Create an instruction label on a large tag and tie it onto the bottle with raffia. You could even stamp the recipient’s name or initials on one side for a customized but useful gift tag.

Thank you Rodale for this informative article.