Looking for a simple DIY natural deodorant without baking soda? I’ve got you covered!
I ditched antiperspirants back in 2013 and started using natural deodorants, but would get so frustrated because none of them really worked that well.
Either they didn’t last longer than a few hours, felt really sticky, or made my pits so sensitive that they caused a painful rash. ðŸ˜
This compelled me to begin experimenting with making my own deodorant.
I wanted something that nourished my sensitive underarms and didn’t burn them like baking soda always did.
I also wanted to create a natural deodorant that smelled nice and lasted throughout the day.
But most importantly, I wanted to know what I was putting on my body.
Being someone who breaks out pretty easily, I’m very intentional about the ingredients that go onto my skin.
With that being said, my 5-ingredient Lavender Cocoa Deodorant is one I’ll be making time and time again.
Ready to make it yourself?
Watch my quick tutorial below to see the exact process, then read on for the full ingredient breakdown!
📌 I recommend doing an armpit detox prior to using this deodorant. It helps combat odor when transitioning from aluminum-based antiperspirant to natural deodorant.
*Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the product or service, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Click here to learn more.
The Problem with Baking Soda in Natural Deodorants
Many DIY and store-bought natural deodorants rely on one staple ingredient to fight odor–baking soda.
While I enjoy baking soda for other uses around the house, I stay away from it in my skincare products.
Baking soda is highly alkaline, with a pH of about 9.
Our armpits, on the other hand, have a natural acidic pH between 4.5-5.5.
These differences in pH will usually wreak havoc on your pits, causing redness, rashes, burning, and/or peeling.
No thanks!
My recipe skips baking soda completely, relying on gentler alternatives to keep you dry and comfortable.
The 5 Skin-Loving Ingredients (And Why They Work)
Unrefined Cocoa Butter
This is the star of the show. Cocoa butter is packed with vitamins and fatty acids that deeply nourish the skin. It also provides a smooth base and has an intoxicating warm, white chocolatey fragrance.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties. This lightweight oil is great at neutralizing odor-causing bacteria.
Arrowroot Flour
This mighty flour is the baking soda alternative. It’s so gentle on the skin, absorbs moisture and sweat really well, and gets rid of any greasy feeling the oils may leave.
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender is one of my favorite scents. This oil is soothing and complements the warm cocoa butter scent surprisingly well.
Jojoba Oil (The Optional Booster)
I used jojoba oil in my deodorant because it closely mimics skin’s natural sebum. Some added bonuses: it’s fragrance-free, has healing benefits, and it’s extremely lightweight.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
- A small beaker or heat-safe bowl
- A pot for the water bath
- An airtight container/small glass jar for storage
*Watch my quick tutorial above to see the exact process and ingredient measurements!
Does It Actually Hold Up? (My Review)
After my natural deodorant set in the fridge, I moved it to my bathroom, where it kept its smooth and slightly hardened consistency.
If you live in a warm climate, you may need to store yours in the fridge; otherwise, it will melt.
To apply, simply rub it onto your underarms with clean fingers or using a small scoop.
It feels so moisturizing, light, and non-greasy. And it smells AMAZING!
Say Hello To Happy Pits!
Ditching conventional antiperspirants doesn’t have to be complicated when you have an easy vegan deodorant recipe to follow.
So, if you’re tired of chafed or smelly pits, give this DIY natural deodorant without baking soda a try!
Hit play on the video above to make your own sensitive skin recipe.
And let me know in the comments if you prefer lavender or another essential oil blend!
Peace, love, and good vibrations. ̴(•◡•)̴♡
