Made my own deodorant

So this past year I switched to the 'clinical strength' deodorant that they sell at the drug store.  I found the Secret brand to be my favorite.  But after the first day I noticed that it did not keep me from smelling.  I usually shower every other day, so I need to smell good for two days generally.  And at the end of day 1 I would not smell pretty.  It wasn't a big stench, but it was enough for me to wonder why the extra strength stuff was not enough.

So I began applying the stuff every morning, and therefore began buying it more often, and at $7 or $8 a box I questioned this investment.  One day perusing blogs I found a site discussing homemade deodorant.  I am pretty sure it was an older post because there were at least 50 comments on the post. After reading every comment, I decided I needed to give the homemade deodorant a try.  So I ran out to the store to get arrowroot powder.

The recipe I use is:
1/4 cup arrowroot powder
1/4 cup baking soda
1/4 cup coconut oil
tea tree essential oil
seal-able container for storage

To make you combine all ingredients in a glass bowl of some kind.  I mix mine with a fork, I find that I am better able to mix it that way.  I would suggest making it into a really thick paste.  It should be firm when you look at it, and touch it.  It should have a little shine to it, but should not look liquidy.  If you find it to be on the liquid side I would suggest adding a small amount of baking soda, stirring it in, and if it is still not firm then add a little bit of arrowroot. 

I store it in one of those 100 calorie ziplock brand tupperwares.

The first time I made this recipe it was an experiment.  After a few days I saw my mixture begin to separate as it sat out.  When I noticed it I mixed in more baking soda, then more arrowroot.  I waited several more days and it was still a bit separated, so I added more again.  This time I found the perfect combination.  It is the consistency I like, and it does not separate at all at night, and its nice because it stays hard until I put it on, and when I put it on it melts a little into my pit.

You put it on by getting a bit on your finger, then rubbing that around your armpit.  When it hits your armpit it will also melt a little, but should immediately absorb into the skin.  It is a little oily, but does not stain your clothes. 

Sometimes I use more, it depends on how I feel.

I have been using this concoction since July, and I made two batches for others for christmas.  It is that good, and other people are willing to try it after you have tested it out.



Linking to: Flamingo Toes.  Nifty Thrifty Things.  Simple as that.  Making the world cuter.  DIY home sweet home. Singing three little birds.  Sumos sweet stuff.  CRAFT.  5 minutes just for me.