Triclosan, for example, may disrupt normal thyroid function and alter hormones. Aluminum, which is present in some “natural crystal” deodorants, has been classified by an oncologist as a genotoxin and hormone disruptor. Other harmful ingredients may include propylene glycol, parabens, and “fragrance,” which often includes phthalates.
Ready to toss your store-bought deodorants goodbye? Here’s an easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons baking soda – if this feels like too much after trying it, decrease by a tablespoon and increase the arrowroot powder by one tablespoon
- 5 tablespoons arrowroot powder or non-GMO cornstarch
- 6 tablespoons shea butter (it’s not greasy and absorbs easily)
- 30-60 drops essential oil (tea tree, frankincense, lavender and patchouli are good options)
In a deep bowl, mix baking soda and arrowroot powder (or cornstarch together). Using your hands or a fork, work in the shea butter until it looks like very crumbly dough. Add in essential oil if using and then whip the deodorant together using a hand mixer. It will seem too dry at first and you’ll wonder if it’s really going to come together, but it will. You do need a deep bowl, though, because in the initial stage of mixing you don’t want the powder to go over the side of the bowl. Transfer to a clean glass jar – I use a 4 ounce jar.
To Use
Using your fingertips, scoop out a very small amount of deodorant – really, a little goes a long way – and rub it in your underarm area until it’s invisible. The deodorant will absorb quickly and keep you smelling fresh, but if you want extra dryness protection you can apply a layer of arrowroot powder over the deodorant using a makeup brush.