Deodorant and antiperspirant can get expensive but unfortunately most of us would consider them ‘non-optional’. Sure, you can forego your morning armpit regime if you feel so inclined but in all likelihood it will quickly clear up your social calendar. You’ll get lots of space on the commute to work though!
Unfortunately though, the cost isn’t the only issue with deodorant and antiperspirant. Most contain a number of ingredients that you might not love spraying onto your armpits, some completely block the pores leading to potential problems down the line and others leave nasty white marks on your clothes. Not ideal!
So what’s the answer?
One potential solution for those who love natural remedies, is to create your own deodorant or antiperspirant using natural ingredients that are easy to come by. And a quick look online will reveal that there are hundreds of such recipes using all manner of healthy components.
Below are a few ingredients you can use to make an effective antiperspirant/deodorant at home. Just mix these ingredients together using coconut oil as the base and you’ll be able to start smelling sweeter without the use of chemicals and trace metals.
The precise instructions have been left out because you can actually decide the quantities yourself through experimentation. The coconut oil actually works as an antiperspirant on its own, so the rest is up to you. See what you find comfortable and pleasant on the nostrils!
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is incredibly popular right now for just about every health benefit you can imagine. It finds its way into all kinds of home remedies, from face creams to shaving oils to hair conditioners.
And what do you know, it can also be used as an effective antiperspirant. Coconut oil has numerous antibacterial properties and this is key seeing as it’s actually bacteria that causes the armpits to smell bad (not the sweat itself).
Almond Oil
The only downside is the texture of the coconut oil, which can be a little solid and flakey. The solution is to add some almond oil, which helps to give it a more liquid-like texture. As a rough guide, one part almond oil to four parts coconut oil.
Arrowroot Powder
Arrowroot powder is an excellent thickener that can be added to your concoction to further improve the overall texture. Alternatives are cornstarch or baking soda, or you can use a combination of these.
Actually, cornstarch can be a rather effective antiperspirant all on its own as it absorbs moisture and will readily remove sweat from your armpits that way. Many guys use cornstarch down below to help combat the dreaded ‘swamp crotch’.
Shea Butter
Another ‘cure-all’ is shea butter and once again, this is another ingredient that you can put under your arms. It’s high in vitamin A and E which makes it great for the skin, while it can gently reduce sweating in the same manner as any of the antiperspirants you’d buy in stores. About two parts shea to three parts coconut oil will do the trick.
Beeswax
This one is definitely optional but it’s packed with more goodness for your skin and can additionally help to lock in the nutrients you’re getting from the coconut oil and shea.
Essential Oil
Finally, if you’re interested in adding some extra scent to the mixture, then you can use some essential oil. About five drops to three tablespoons of coconut oil is a good guide and you can try experimenting with different flavors like lavender and orange.
Melt all this in a pan and add the powder once you’ve turned off the heat. Let it cool and then seal it in an airtight container. You should be able to easily scrape out a little on your finger to put under your armpit.