Natural Deodorant Cream Recipe

Stay fresh all day long with this homemade deodorant cream for your underarms. Made with natural ingredients like baking soda and essential oils, this deodorant is long-lasting and effective.

I have been using natural deodorant for years, but I am always shocked at how pricey store-bought deodorants are! Once I started making my own, I never looked back. Homemade deodorant is effective, natural, and a great way to save money.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a steady stock of natural homemade deodorant to keep body odor at bay. I love choosing the ingredients that go into my deodorant and cutting down on my budget!

How to Make Deodorant Cream

What You’ll Need

• 1 oz shea butter: It’s a great base for the deodorant cream, and shea butter will moisturize and nourish your underarms. 
• 1 oz coconut oil: Be sure to use regular unrefined coconut oil, not fractionated coconut oil. 
• 0.20 oz sunflower oil: Adding a liquid oil to the mixture creates the perfect creamy texture. You can use any liquid carrier oil, such as almond or grapeseed oil.
• 0.75 oz baking soda: I use baking soda in many of my recipes because it’s so powerful for fighting odors. If you have sensitive skin and find it irritating, I have a recipe for homemade deodorant without baking soda. 
• 0.25 oz cornstarch: Cornstarch helps the deodorant wick away sweat and keeps it from feeling heavy or oily. Feel free to use arrowroot powder instead. 
• 20-30 drops of essential oils: Make your own blend or try one of the recommended blends below!
• Deodorant container: You can use any small heavy-duty plastic or glass jar. 

Instructions

Step 1. In a double boiler or a heat-resistant bowl set over simmering water, melt the shea butter, coconut oil and sunflower oil together.

Step 2. Remove the mixture from the heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda and cornstarch.

Step 4. Slowly whisk the dry ingredients into the melted oils.

Step 5. Next, use an immersion blender to combine the ingredients thoroughly. (This will take about 30 seconds.)

Step 6. Add 20 drops of your chosen essential oils. (See pro tip below.) 

Step 7. Transfer the mixture to the fridge to set up. As it cools, mix it with an immersion blender every 10 minutes.

Step 8. Once it starts to solidify, scoop the deodorant cream into a clean, dry container.

Step 9. Let the deodorant solidify for several hours at room temperature, or refrigerate for a faster set.

Pro Tip: Start with 20 drops of essential oil and add more (up to 10 more drops) for a stronger scent. Be cautious, as some essential oils can irritate the skin. It’s always best to do a patch test on your inner arm before applying it to your underarms.

How to Apply Cream Deodorant

Once your homemade cream deodorant is set, you can start using it! Apply the deodorant to clean, dry armpits by rubbing a pea-sized amount onto the skin. Use more as needed, but be careful as a little goes a long way. It’s a good idea to allow the cream to soak into your skin for a few minutes before getting dressed.

Expert Tips

• The consistency of your deodorant will depend on temperature. If you live in a warmer climate it will be more liquid, and if you live in a cooler climate, it will set a bit harder. You can adjust the amount of sunflower oil to change the consistency of your deodorant depending on the season and where you live.
• When choosing your essential oils, opt for those known for their deodorizing properties, such as tea tree, lavender, or lemongrass. Keep reading for some great deodorizing blends.

Essential Oil Blends for Homemade Deodorant

Adding essential oils to your homemade natural deodorant is a great way to add a nice scent while also boosting the odor-fighting power of your product. 

You can get creative by making your own blend or opting for one of my suggested blends. ‘Floral Fresh’ is my favorite and the blend I use for this recipe!

Be cautious, as some essential oils can irritate the skin. It’s always best to do a patch test on your inner arm before applying the deodorant to your underarms. If you will be applying this deodorant to exposed skin, avoid photosensitive oils such as orange, lemon, or bergamot.

Floral Fresh

• 11 drops Jasmine 
• 7 drops Tea Tree
• 7 drops Juniper berry

Soothing Citrus

• 9 drops Lemongrass
• 9 drops Rosemary
• 7 drops Clary Sage

Lavender Fields

• 11 drops Lavender
• 7 drops Geranium
• 7 drops Ylang-Ylang

Cool Forest

• 10 drops Sandalwood
• 10 drops Cedarwood
• 5 drops Patchouli

Does Natural Deodorant Work?

One of the most frequently asked questions I receive about homemade deodorant is, “Does it work?” It’s a fair question; no one wants to find themselves stinking halfway through the day. 

I’ve tried a lot of natural deodorants and made many myself and I love them! I use natural deodorant daily and find it to work very well. 

Natural deodorant is effective, but it takes time for the body to adjust. Be patient as you go through the adjustment period. I highly recommend doing an armpit detox and exfoliating the underarms occasionally as you transition to natural deodorants. 

That said, natural deodorants are not as effective as conventional deodorants. That’s just the way it is when we choose to avoid harsh chemicals. While I don’t mind a mild deodorant, my husband sweats a lot in the summer, so he uses a stronger conventional deodorant when he needs it.

Keep in mind this recipe is for a deodorant cream, not an antiperspirant. Deodorant creams neutralize odor-causing bacteria, while antiperspirants block sweat. 

Related DIY Recipes You’ll Love

• Whole Body Deodorant Spray
• Vanilla Lavender Body Spray
• DIY Men’s Cologne

I hope you enjoy this homemade deodorant cream! If you love it, I’d love for you to come back and give it 5 stars!