Tired of worrying about the presence of aluminum and chemicals in your antiperspirant? The debate continues about whether aluminum increases the risk for Alzheimer's disease, and if Parabens are associated with breast cancer. Make the switch and try a deodorant containing only natural, safe ingredients known for their moisture absorbing and deodorizing qualities.
Containing arrowroot powder and baking soda, this deodorant stick does absorb moisture, and does its job for a typical day. Everyone's body chemistry and activity level are different, so some people may need to reapply before the day's end. If doing hard physical work or under extreme stress, a deodorant may not totally eliminate sweating under the arms, but not being an actual antiperspirant that is to be expected. Personally, I found that after using a natural deodorant for a while perspiration under the arms seemed to be less of an issue and no odor.
The active ingredient used in most antiperspirants is aluminum. Aluminum minimizes wetness by blocking the pores which prevents sweat from escaping. Our bodies are designed to sweat and it may be harmful to force the body to hold in harmful toxins that should be excreted. Remember that diet has a lot to do with how much we sweat and how that sweat smells. The old-fashioned drink consisting of raw apple cider vinegar and honey (1 tbsp. each) added to a glass of water and drank once or twice a day can help the body absorb toxins. As far as the concern with aluminum contributing to the risk of alzheimers and cancer, The FDA continues to have the "wait and see" attitude until definitive studies are released.
Two other ingredients to look for in commercial products are propylene glycol and phthalates. Propylene glycol is a petroleum based material that is added to soften and give that glide which makes skin care products more easily applicable to the skin. Phthalates are another class of chemicals used to dissolve ingredients so that they blend efficiently. The argument for these ingredients is that they are not in large enough amounts to be a safety issue. The concern is that we use these products every day, therefore these chemicals are always present in our tissues. Kidney problems, cell mutations, hormone disrupters...why worry.
Should you notice any little particles on the insides of your clothes, this is from the baking soda and easily brushes off.
Without the addition of propylene glycol, the deodorant does have a different feel when applying than the slick glide of commercial stick deodorants.
Arrowroot powder is used for its smooth texture and effectiveness at absorbing moisture.
Aluminum free baking soda also helps absorb moisture, but it is a very effective deodorizer as well.
*******Some people are sensitive to baking soda in that it irritates their skin. The pH of sodium bicarbonate is around 8.3 and skin has a pH of around 5.5, therefore this can cause sore armpits for some people. Some people have no problem with sensitivity but if you think this may be the case for you there are options. We can easily reduce the amount in your cream or substitute.
Food Grade Diatomaceous earth is a natural, easy on the skin source of silica which absorbs moisture and toxins. It will change the color of your deodorant from white to a darker color.
Just let me know at checkout if you prefer to use the original recipe with the baking soda or if you'd prefer the diatomaceous earth instead of the baking soda or you'd like to use half and half of each.
For some people it has been observed that though diatomaceous earth is an effective alternative to the baking soda, the deodorant may need to be reapplied before the day is done.**********
Coconut oil and shea butter are the two oil bases used. The anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties of coconut oil along with the way it softens the skin, have earned coconut oil such a positive reputation that people don't seem to mind dealing with its tendency to melt in warm temperatures. Coconut oil begins to liquefy at around 76 degrees and gets harder in colder temperatures. Beeswax is added to help keep the cream firm, but if your home tends to become very warm during the summer months, you may want to place the deodorant in the refrigerator to firm it back up. On cooler days, you may find the consistency harder than usual. It will soften upon body contact.
***I have discovered that using candelilla wax instead of beeswax results in a finished product with a much smoother glide. I plan on using the candelilla wax for future orders and make note on the feedback I receive.
Shea butter is a wonderful moisturizer and blends very nicely with coconut oil. A rich, therapeutic butter, shea is gentle on the sensitive skin under the arms.
*****************Allergy to coconut oil? Allergic to propolis in beeswax?*******************
Using shea butter is a nice alternative. Just let me know if you need the deodorant made with all shea butter and no coconut oil.
An alternative to beeswax is called candelilla wax which is a wax derived from the leaves of the small Candelilla shrub native to northern Mexico and the southwestern United States.
Such alternatives can easily work around sensitivities.**********************
***********Should you be pregnant or suffer with seizures from epilepsy, please let me know and we will leave out the rosemary and sage essential oils. Lavender would be a safe alternative.************
Being both coconut oil and shea butter have a long shelf life of up to two years, no preservatives are added to this deodorant. Synthetic preservatives such as parabens can be avoided with "made to order" items that are usually used up long before problems arise. Being this product contains no water, and the chosen ingredients used contain antibacterial properties, you should have no problems. The concern with parabens is that absorption of these chemicals on a regular basis can disrupt delicate hormonal balance and build up organ toxicity. Be aware of this when you see the words methyl, ethyl, propyl, benzyl and butyl.
Rather than be exposed to things like triclosan for its anti-bacterial and odor killing actions, why not utilize the power of our plant world. Certainly safer than using a known carcinogenic pesticide.
A touch of neem oil is added as it soothes irritated skin, and studies show it is very useful for killing harmful bacteria on the skin.
Sage essential oil has antimicrobial qualities and its sharp, clean smell add a scent appealing to both men and women. The actual herb is said to reduce perspiration if drank in tea form.
Rosemary is another very good deodorizing essential oil. It's antiseptic properties help with healing skin, sensitive from shaving.
Tea tree oil is not only a deodorizer and acts as an antiseptic, but also contains anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties.
When you make the switch to a natural deodorant, it may take your body a few weeks to get used to the ingredients and eliminate chemicals already in the pores.
Should you be sensitive under their arms after shaving, perhaps you could shave the night before and apply the deodorant in the morning rather than immediately after shaving.
Some people are sensitive to baking soda in that it irritates their skin. If this is the case for you, we can easily reduce the amount used or substitute.
To use, turn the dial just enough for the amount to be used. Apply to clean, dry armpits.
Everyone's body chemistry is different. What works for one person may not work for another. One person may find that a natural deodorant keeps them dry and odor free, while another may find it failing after a few hours. You'll have to be your own judge. Reviews on such a product are very subjective.
Coconut Oil & Shea Butter Stick Deodorant comes in a 2.5 oz. plastic tube.
If you would prefer another essential oil blend the following are nice options, just let me know at checkout:
Lavender, Lemon, Frankincense
Lavender, Lime, Eucalyptus, Tea Tree
Lavender, Rosemary, Tea Tree
Lemongrass, Rosemary, Tea Tree
Tangerine, Sandalwood, Sage
Just Lemon
Also available is the same basic recipe but as a cream in a 2 oz. jar
https://www.etsy.com/listing/156037610/natural-deodorant-deodorizing-armpit?ref=shop_home_active
"This stuff seriously is fantastic. Over the past few years my skin has been getting more and more sensitive, initially to 'store' brand detergents/soaps, but then suddenly my baking soda deodorant was on that list... After using a few earth/clay blends, they just don't really seem to cut it for my BO. I was delighted to see the "half and half" option for this stuff and decided to give the baking soda another shot. I am happy say this stuff not only smells great, but it *lasts* all day. I slap this on before I go to work, go work out, come home and there is no BO to be had after 10-12 hours of running around! Judging from my skin, it seems pretty okay with whatever baking soda ratio this has too! 100% I will be back once this tube runs out. I'm thrilled to finally have found something that works!"
"Second time purchasing this. I love that it never irritates my skin! I have discovered my new favorite deodorant! Everyone in my family keeps taking some too, so it must be good! I have had some very sweaty days recently and very happy to say I didn't even need to reapply this. I couldn't still smell the essential oils in it but I detected no body odor, just simply fresh smelling. You really need to try this one! Every other one I've tried, with the exception of one other, I've had to reapply throughout the day. Nice knowing I'm covered and don't have to worry about it!"
