DIY Sensitive Skin Deodorant without Baking Soda
Are you one of those people who can’t use Natural DIY deodorants because they leave your poor pits sore, itchy and covered in a rash that stings and drives you insane? Then this DIY sensitive skin Deodorant without baking soda is for you!
Most natural deodorants rely on baking soda (Sodium Bicarbonate) to combat BO stink. The problem with baking soda for those of you with sensitive skin is the chemical reaction that occurs between the baking soda and your skin and sweat. In some people, this reaction leaves you with a sore red rash, while in others there is no reaction at all. Some people use a natural deodorant with baking soda for years with no reaction, only to wake one day with a rash. There is no clear reason why some people react to sodium bicarbonate and others do not. However, there are many factors that come into play such hormones, stress, alcohol, diet and lifestyle. Whatever the cause you need a deodorant without baking soda and in steps Diatomaceous earth to save the day.
What on Earth is Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a naturally occurring sand made up of microscopic fossilised skeletons of single celled algae called diatoms. Diatoms are unique in that they are the only organisms on the planet with cell walls made up of silica – they live in houses made of glass. I have nerded out over diatoms since my University days. The scanning electron microscope images of these tiny organisms captivated me with their intricate beauty, and still do to this day.
Why Use DE in Homemade Natural Deodorant Recipes?
Diatomaceous earth is a great inclusion in Baking soda free DIY deodorant recipes as it is naturally anti-bacterial and assists in neutralising odours. There are two grades of diatomaceous earth – food grade and filter or industrial grade. Be sure to get yourself food grade to use in the recipe. Food grade DE carries a negative ionic charge, meaning it also works to draw out toxins and heavy metals from the body.
There are many great uses for food grade diatomaceous earth. DE is not the focus of this post, although I have ranted on about my love for it 😜, but if you would like to learn more check out this page.
We have a number of other natural deodorant recipes you might like to check out.
DIY Roll-on Deodorant
2 Ingredient Natural Spray Deodorant
Natural DIY Deodorant Paste – That Works!
If you are completely new to natural deodorants you might also like to check out our posts on detoxing your armpits which can be beneficial when transitioning from chemical deodorants to natural ones.
Detox Your Armpits
Super Simple Pit Detox Paste
DIY Deodorant without Baking Soda for Sensitive Skin
An Easy Natural DIY deodorant without baking soda for sensitive skin
Materials
- 50g unrefined Shea Butter
- 25g coconut oil
- 15g kaolin clay
- 12g (2.5tbsp) diatomaceous earth
- 12g (1.5 tbsp) arrowroot starch
- 30-40 drops antibacterial essential oils
Tools
- Small pot
- Empty clean jar
- Non-metal spoon/spatula
Instructions
- fill your pot with approximately 5 cm of water, pop on the stove and bring to a simmer
- in a clean empty jar weigh out your shea butter & coconut oil
- place jar in simmering water until shea butter is fully melted
- once fully melted remove the jar from the heat and add the clay, diatomaceous earth and arrowroot.
- stir with a non-metal implement until completely combined
- allow the mixture to cool slightly then add essential oils of your choice
- transfer to a jar and allow to cool with the lid off
Notes
- Some essential oil combos I like for deodorant are frankincense & Grapefruit, Rosemary, cedarwood and tea tree, tea tree and lemongrass and of course lavender. Go wild.
- This recipe fills one 120ml jar, but feel free to smaller jars, I tend to use 60ml jars for deodorant and keep the second jar in the fridge to retain its freshness
- Glass jars are the best for storing this deodorant to avoid leaching of the chemicals in plastic from the essential oils. However, if breakage is a concern go ahead and use plastic. Just avoid metal tins as they will react with the clay and reduce its effectiveness.
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