My homemade natural deodorant recipe is several years old and is one of the most popular on my site with almost 800 comments. I still use it and it is really effective, but some people don’t react well to the baking soda and are looking for another option.
It seems that baking soda gives some people an itchy, red rash when used on the underarms. It works incredibly well in deodorant recipes, but some people just can’t tolerate it and I definitely don’t recommend continuing to try a recipe that is causing a rash or pain.
One solution here is to just remove the baking soda from the original recipe, and use equal parts of shea butter, coconut oil and arrowroot powder with essential oils for scent, though some people find this isn’t as effective as the recipe with baking soda.
I found out recently when I packed the wrong glass jar for a trip that my magnesium body butter works really well as a deodorant. In fact, if you react to baking soda, I’d recommend trying the magnesium body butter as an alternative.
My accidental mix up made me wonder if there was another good natural deodorant solution besides the recipes with baking soda, and maybe one that was more convenient as well. One complaint with oil based recipes is that they can stain clothing if you don’t wait for it to dry before getting dressed.
I wanted a quick dry option that wasn’t oil based, didn’t have baking soda and that actually worked.
I also loved the idea of using something with magnesium like the magnesium body butter but didn’t want something that thick. Then, I found a perfect solution that I’ve sweat tested in a hot southern summer while running outside and it works.
I still love the original recipes, but I’ve been using this one too and even tested them both side by side and this recipe seems to be equally effective.
So what’s in it? Great question. The secret ingredient is….
Magnesium Oil!
It’s actually a misnomer, since magnesium oil just feels oily but doesn’t contain any actual oil, but it is incredibly effective at preventing underarm odor, plus you get a boost of magnesium. Add some essential oils and it is a great smell- good deodorant.
You can make magnesium oil yourself (this is the recipe I use) or buy the pre-made version here.
NOTE: Some people experience a tingling sensation when they first start using magnesium oil. This is considered a normal reaction, especially for those who are low on magnesium and it should fade in a couple of days.
TIP: To make this even more effective, mix 3/4 cup water with 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar and apply to underarms after showering and let dry before applying this. This helps remove any natural bacteria in the underarm and makes this spray deodorant last even longer.
Spray Deodorant Ingredients
- 4 ounces magnesium oil
- 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oils or a mixture
- A 4 ounce or larger glass spray bottle (I use this one but replaced the top because my kids dropped the bottle and the original top broke)
Spray Deodorant Instructions
- Make the magnesium oil if using homemade magnesium oil.
- Pour in to glass spray bottle and add any essential oils if using.
- To use: spray a small amount on underarms and rub in gently. Let dry for about 5 seconds.
Note: Stinging can sometimes occur if used right after shaving or if you are low on magnesium. This should subside after a few days.
Ever made deodorant? How did it go? Share your experience below!
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