DIY Essential Oil Deodorant That Really Works

I tested many natural deodorants and most fell short. This homemade essential oil deodorant, however, consistently controls odor and keeps you feeling fresh. It’s baking-soda-free, gentle on sensitive skin, and has a pleasant natural scent that isn’t overpowering.

Why this homemade deodorant works

Magnesium hydroxide helps neutralize odor without harsh chemicals.
Tapioca flour absorbs moisture to help you feel dry throughout the day.
A balanced blend of essential oils (coriander, lemongrass, lavender, tea tree, and cypress) supports bacterial control, so perspiration smells less noticeable and skin feels soothed.
The formula is non-greasy and absorbs quickly, so only a small amount is needed per application.
No baking soda, so it’s a better option for people with sensitive underarm skin.

How to make this DIY essential oil deodorant

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a smooth, effective, baking-soda-free deodorant at home. The full recipe and process are below; gather your supplies and a few jars before you begin.

Step 1: Prepare the base butters and oils

Add the following to a heat-safe glass measuring cup or bowl:

1/4 cup cocoa butter (substitute kokum butter if you prefer)
1/3 cup shea butter (or mango butter as an alternative)
1/4 cup virgin coconut oil (babassu oil is a substitute)
2 Tbsp sweet almond oil (or another light carrier oil such as apricot kernel oil)

Step 2: Melt the butters and oils

Use a double-boiler method: place the heat-safe measuring cup in a pot of simmering water and stir occasionally until everything is fully melted.

Step 3: Add dry ingredients and honey

Remove the melted oils from the heat and stir in:

1/2 cup magnesium hydroxide powder
1/2 cup tapioca flour
1 Tbsp raw honey

Mix until you have an even, smooth consistency.

Step 4: Chill and whip

Refrigerate the mixture until firm, about one hour. Once solid, use a mixer to lightly whip the mixture so it becomes airy and spreadable.

Step 5: Add vitamin E and essential oils

After whipping, add 1 tsp vitamin E, then the essential oils below and blend until fully incorporated:

8 drops coriander essential oil
4 drops lemongrass essential oil
4 drops lavender essential oil
2 drops tea tree essential oil
8 drops cypress essential oil

Whip again until the deodorant is light and fluffy and the oils are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Package and store

Scoop the finished deodorant into airtight glass jars. This batch typically fills six 2-oz mini mason jars or three 4-oz jelly jars, depending on how much you whip and how full you fill each container.

Store in a cool place. If ambient temperature exceeds about 75°F (24°C), keep jars refrigerated so the butters and oils remain solid.

Optional finishing touch

Wrap twine around a small scoop and secure it to the jar neck so the scoop sits neatly on the jar for easy use.

Recipe summary

Add to a heat-safe glass measuring cup or bowl:

1/4 cup cocoa butter
1/3 cup shea butter
1/4 cup virgin coconut oil
2 Tbsp sweet almond oil

Melt with a double-boiler. Remove from heat and stir in:

1/2 cup magnesium hydroxide powder
1/2 cup tapioca flour
1 Tbsp raw honey

Chill until firm, whip lightly, then add 1 tsp vitamin E and the essential oil blend listed above. Whip to a fluffy texture and jar.

How to use

Scoop a pea-sized amount and apply to each underarm. Rub in until invisible. Allow a couple of minutes to dry before dressing so it absorbs and sets. A little goes a long way.

Note: magnesium can sting slightly on freshly shaved skin. If you’ve just shaved, wait a few minutes before applying.

Where to get supplies

Typical supplies for this recipe include:

Shea butter (or mango butter)
Cocoa butter (or kokum butter)
Virgin coconut oil (or babassu oil)
Magnesium hydroxide powder
Tapioca flour
Vitamin E oil
Sweet almond oil (or another carrier oil)
Raw honey
Glass jars (2 oz mini mason jars or 4 oz jars)
Mini wooden spoons or small scoops and twine if desired

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Please note: Products mentioned in this article have not been evaluated by the FDA. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your medical doctor for medical care and advice.

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DIY Essential Oil Deodorant That Actually Works