The Ultimate Guide to DIY Deodorant Powders: Safe, Effective, and Science-Backed

Below you’ll learn about the powders you can use for your DIY deodorant and what each does (bookmark this page!)

DIY deodorants are made by mixing oils with powders. Very simple, very effective, very nice!

Out with nasties from bought commercial products.

I mean, would you put the below stuff under your arms?

Parabens – Might mess with your hormones (here).
Aluminum compounds – Linked to concerns about breast cancer and Alzheimer’s, though evidence isn’t conclusive (here)
Silica – Skin irritant that could be laced with carcinogens (here).
Triclosan – Kills good and bad bacteria, with potential thyroid impacts (here).
Talc – Possible asbestos contamination; cancer concerns (here).
Phthalates – Linked to issues in the liver, kidneys, and reproductive system (here and here).
Propylene Glycol – Might affect your central nervous system, heart, and liver in large amounts (an example of toxicity here).
Alcohol – Drying and irritating for sensitive skin, especially post-shaving
TEA & DEA – Could pose risks to liver and kidneys, with carcinogenic concerns (here).
Steareths – While considered low toxicity, the impact of long-term exposure is unknown

Because, if you’re buying commercial deodorants that are not natural, basically, you are putting at least one of the above under your arms.

So, yes, I’d say better if you buy natural.

Or, make it yourself.

If you haven’t made your own deodorant before, I don’t think you’re aware of HOW EASY IT IS.

Unfortunately, this post is not about how to make your own DIY deodorant, but it will give you a good clue about which powders to mix and why.

Perfect to bookmark for when you’re ready to make your own DIY deodorant. Even if you are making a really basic one with just the one powder, you might want to know about powders in general and what they do and how they work within a DIY deodorant.

It’s always good to be armed with the facts, believe me.

Comprehensive list of powders for your DIY deodorant

Every powder listed below is natural, but each come with the pros and cons.

You can mix as you like (all of them, one of them, a few of them…) as long as you keep the formula around 50% oils and 50% powders. This way the deodorant will have a lovely texture and it is easy to remember.

Make sure to bookmark this page for future reference when you make your deodorant, please.

Here’s a simplified table if you prefer the information that way:

Ingredient	Sensitive Skin	Odour Control	Moisture Absorption	Suitable for Heavy Sweaters
Baking Soda		High	High	✓
Activated Charcoal	✓	High	Medium	✓
Bentonite Clay	✓	Medium	High	✓
Diatomaceous Earth	✓	Medium	High	✓
Magnesium Hydroxide	✓	Medium	Low	✓
Kaolin Clay	✓	Low	Medium
Arrowroot Powder	✓	Low	High
Cornstarch	✓	Low	Medium
Tapioca Starch	✓	Low	Medium
Rice Powder	✓	Low	Low

Easy way for you to compare powders and their properties

1. Baking soda is great at stopping the smells but not good for sensitive skin

Baking soda is good at combating sweat odours, and that’s why it’s so popular with DIY deodorants. But. While it is good for sweating/odours, it can be too much for sensitive skin. Hence the controversy with baking soda.

Natural option? Yes, derived from natural mineral compounds.
Fighting odour: 9/10 – Excellent at neutralising body odour.
For heavy sweaters: 8/10 – Very effective, even under intense conditions.
Sensitive skin? 4/10 – Can cause irritation for those with sensitive skin.
Any drawbacks? Yes, potential for skin irritation due to its alkalinity.
Mixes well with? Soothing ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and arrowroot powder to balance effectiveness with gentleness.
Important to know: It’s crucial to do a patch test before using baking soda in your DIY deodorant, especially if you have sensitive skin. Starting with lower concentrations and gradually increasing can help mitigate potential irritation.

2. Activated charcoal is fantastic at absorbing toxins but too much stains your clothes

WATCH OUT: Activated charcoal is great for keeping you fresh, but its dark colour might leave marks on your clothes or skin if you use too much of it in your DIY deodorant. If it gets on your skin, it usually washes off pretty easily with soap and water. When it comes to clothes, it’s best to be careful, especially with light colours. The trick is to use just enough charcoal to do its job without causing any mess (1-2% of the final recipe).

Activated charcoal, sneaky good at trapping odours and toxins. And kind to your skin. But, it might leave a bit of a mess since it is VERY dark (and it can stain badly if you overdo it in your deodorant). A bit of a catch-22, you really need to get the percentage right (about 1-2% will do the trick).

Natural option? Yes, derived from coconut shells or other natural sources.
Fighting odour: 9/10 – Exceptionally good at absorbing odours and toxins.
For heavy sweaters: 8/10 – Provides long-lasting freshness, even for those who sweat more.
Sensitive skin? 7/10 – Generally gentle, but should be used cautiously in formulations to avoid any potential dryness or irritation.
Any drawbacks? Can be messy due to its dark color, and overuse might lead to dryness for some skin types.
Mixes well with? Coconut oil, shea butter for a smooth application, and arrowroot powder for enhanced moisture absorption.
Important to know: Start with a small amount due to its potent absorbing properties and dark colour. It is excellent for detoxifying but requires careful formulation to ensure it doesn’t stain clothes or overly dry the skin.

3. Bentonite clay is great at detoxifying but can be drying

Bentonite clay is just great at pulling toxins and keeping you fresh. Careful though, it can dry out your skin. The trick? Use about 20-30% in your mix to hit the sweet spot.

Natural option? Yes, sourced from volcanic ash, it’s 100% natural.
Fighting odour: 8/10 – Great at absorbing moisture and neutralising odours.
For heavy sweaters: 7/10 – Effective at keeping you dry, making it suitable for those who sweat more.
Sensitive skin? 8/10 – Known for its soothing properties, making it good for sensitive skin, though everyone’s skin reacts differently.
Any drawbacks? Needs to be mixed properly to avoid clumping and ensure a smooth application. In rare cases, it might cause dryness if not balanced with moisturising ingredients.
Mixes well with? Moisturising agents like coconut oil and shea butter to prevent dryness, and arrowroot powder to enhance its moisture-absorbing capabilities.
Important to know: Bentonite clay can be a bit drying if used in high concentrations, so it’s crucial to find the right balance in your deodorant formula. It’s also worth doing a patch test first, especially if you have very sensitive skin.

4. Diatomaceous earth is very effective for odour control but can be abrasive

Diatomaceous earth absorbs moisture and is gentle, despite its abrasive nature (but don’t worry, it’s gentle enough for skin when used in the right amount). Aim for a 20-30% mix in your deodorant.

Natural option? Yes, made from fossilized algae, it’s entirely natural.
Fighting odour: 7/10 – Good at absorbing moisture and helping to neutralize body odour.
For heavy sweaters: 6/10 – Helps keep you dry but may need to be combined with stronger odour-fighting ingredients for the best effect.
Sensitive skin? 9/10 – Generally very gentle and less likely to cause irritation, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin.
Any drawbacks? It’s a very fine powder, so it can be a bit messy to work with. Also, because it’s highly absorbent, it might make the skin too dry if used excessively and not balanced with oils or butters.
Mixes well with? Works great when mixed with moisturizing ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter, as well as with a binder like beeswax to help it adhere better to the skin. Mixing with other powders like arrowroot or cornstarch can enhance its moisture control without over-drying.
Important to know: Diatomaceous earth is effective for day-to-day moisture control but might need to be part of a blend for those looking for strong odour protection, especially during intense activities. Always use food-grade diatomaceous earth to ensure it’s safe for skin application.

5. Magnesium hydroxide is gentle on skin but may require reapplication

Magnesium hydroxide fights odours effectively while being a REALLY GOOD for sensitive skin. Just remember, about 20-30% in your mixture gets you that perfect, skin-friendly deodorant.

Natural option? Sourced from seawater or brine, making it a natural choice.
Fighting odour: 8/10 – Very effective at neutralizing body odours.
For heavy sweaters: 7/10 – Reliable for daily activities, though may need reapplication in extreme cases.
Sensitive skin? 9/10 – Highly suitable for those with sensitive skin due to its gentle nature.
Any drawbacks? Limited; primarily its effectiveness can be slightly lower than more harsh alternatives.
Mixes well with? Coconut oil and shea butter for a soothing, moisturizing base; arrowroot powder can be added for improved consistency and absorption.
Important to know: Start with a base ratio of 2 parts magnesium hydroxide to 1 part binding/moisturizing agents. Adjust based on personal preference and skin sensitivity. Essential oils can be added for scent but use them sparingly to avoid skin irritation and clothing stains.

6. Kaolin clay is soft and gentle, but less effective for heavy sweaters

Kaolin clay, soft on the skin and great at moisture control. Not strong when it comes to combatting odours, but still good enough for basic deodorant purposes. Mix it with something stronger, like baking soda or activated charcoal, if you need an extra punch against odours. Aim for about 20-30% kaolin clay and 1-2% activated charcoal.

Natural option? Yes, derived from naturally occurring soft clay, it’s completely natural.
Fighting odour: 6/10 – Moderately effective at absorbing moisture and odours.
For heavy sweaters: 5/10 – Can help keep you dry under normal conditions but may not be sufficient alone for those who sweat heavily.
Sensitive skin? 10/10 – Very gentle on the skin, making it ideal for individuals with sensitive skin types.
Any drawbacks? While gentle, it may not offer the strongest odour or wetness protection when used by itself. It’s best used in combination with other ingredients for optimal effectiveness.
Mixes well with? Enhances its effectiveness when combined with stronger odour-fighting ingredients like baking soda or magnesium hydroxide. Works well with coconut oil and shea butter for a smoother application and to maintain skin moisture.
Important to know: Kaolin clay is a great option for those seeking a milder deodorant ingredient. It’s particularly beneficial for soothing the skin and can also help with the deodorant’s overall texture, making it smoother and easier to apply.

7. Arrowroot powder is excellent for moisture absorption but may not be strong enough for odour control

Arrowroot powder, your go-to for silky smooth skin feel and solid moisture absorption. It’s not the best at knocking out strong odours, but it does the job for everyday freshness. If you need to boost odour-fighting power, pair it up with baking soda. Around 20-30% arrowroot and 20-25% baking soda.

Natural option? Yes, derived from the rootstocks of several tropical plants, it’s completely natural.
Fighting odour: 6/10 – While not directly neutralizing odours, it helps by absorbing moisture that can lead to odour.
For heavy sweaters: 5/10 – Good for light sweating days but might need to be paired with stronger ingredients for heavy sweaters.
Sensitive skin? 10/10 – Extremely gentle on the skin, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin.
Any drawbacks? On its own, it may not provide enough odour protection for those who sweat heavily or are looking for robust odour control.
Mixes well with? Pairs well with coconut oil and shea butter for a smooth consistency and with odour-fighting powders like baking soda or magnesium hydroxide to enhance effectiveness.
Important to know: Arrowroot powder is a fantastic option for those looking to avoid corn-based products. It offers a silky texture to deodorants, making them easy to apply without leaving a greasy feel.

8. Cornstarch offers gentle moisture control but not strong enough for intense odour or wetness

Cornstarch offers a really simple, gentle option for keeping your underarm dry. Easy to find as well. It is great for a lovely smooth feel BUT it won’t fight odours like other powders. For that extra punch, mixing it with activated charcoal or baking soda. Go for about 20-30% cornstarch and 1-2% activated charcoal and/or 20% of baking soda.

Natural option? Yes, derived from corn, it’s a natural and readily available ingredient.
Fighting odour: 6/10 – Helps absorb moisture which can reduce odours but isn’t as effective at neutralizing smells on its own.
For heavy sweaters: 5/10 – Provides moderate moisture absorption, suitable for light to moderate activity levels.
Sensitive skin? 8/10 – Generally gentle and suitable for sensitive skin, making it a popular choice in many skincare formulations.
Any drawbacks? While it’s good at absorbing moisture, it can clump if not mixed well or in very humid conditions. It may also not provide enough odour protection for some, especially during intense physical activities.
Mixes well with? Blends well with baking soda or magnesium hydroxide for enhanced odour control, and oils like coconut oil or shea butter to improve the deodorant’s texture and skin-feel. Also works well with essential oils for a natural scent.
Important to know: Cornstarch is a great starting point for those new to DIY deodorant due to its simplicity and gentleness. However, experimenting with additional odour-fighting ingredients may be necessary for optimal effectiveness.

9. Tapioca starch is smooth for the skin but might not last long against perspiration

Tapioca starch, smooth on the skin and pretty good at soaking up moisture. While it’s gentle and won’t tackle strong smells head-on, it’s perfect for daily use. Want more odour control? Add a around 20% baking soda and/or a pinch of activated charcoal keeping it light – around 1-2% should do, alongside 20-30% tapioca starch. This will keep your deo balanced and effective.

Natural option? Yes, extracted from the cassava root, making it a natural and sustainable choice.
Fighting odour: 5/10 – While not directly neutralizing odours, it helps by absorbing moisture where bacteria can thrive.
For heavy sweaters: 5/10 – Offers decent moisture absorption, making it suitable for daily activities but may need reinforcement during high-sweat situations.
Sensitive skin? 9/10 – Very gentle on the skin, often used in products designed for sensitive skin due to its soft, smooth texture.
Any drawbacks? Like cornstarch, it’s great at absorbing moisture but doesn’t tackle odour as strongly on its own. May require combination with other odour-fighting ingredients for full effectiveness.
Mixes well with? Combines nicely with coconut oil and shea butter for a smooth application. Works well in synergy with baking soda, magnesium hydroxide, or activated charcoal to boost odour control.
Important to know: Tapioca starch is a fine, lightweight powder that can give DIY deodorants a silky feel. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a non-irritating moisture absorber but remember to pair it with ingredients that have stronger odour-neutralizing properties for the best results.

10. Rice powder (flour) is good for sensitive skin but offers minimal odour protection

Rice powder, ultra-gentle and gives that silky touch. It’s more about keeping you dry than fighting odours. For a bit of extra odour protection, sprinkle in some magnesium hydroxide or arrowroot powder. Keep rice powder around 20-30% of your mix, with just about 5-10% of the additional odour-fighting ingredient to maintain that soft, gentle feel.

Natural option? Yes, made from ground rice, it’s completely natural and gentle.
Fighting odour: 4/10 – Absorbs moisture which can help minimize conditions where odour-causing bacteria thrive, but not the strongest odour neutralizer.
For heavy sweaters: 4/10 – Provides light moisture absorption, best suited for those with minimal to moderate sweating.
Sensitive skin? 10/10 – Extremely gentle on the skin, making it ideal for people with sensitive skin or those looking for a mild deodorant ingredient.
Any drawbacks? While it’s excellent for sensitive skin, its odour-fighting and moisture-absorbing capabilities are less potent compared to other ingredients like baking soda or activated charcoal.
Mixes well with? Works well with soothing oils like coconut oil and shea butter, and can be combined with more potent odour-fighting ingredients like magnesium hydroxide or arrowroot powder to enhance its effectiveness.
Important to know: Rice powder is valued for its gentleness and is a good option for maintaining skin health in deodorant formulations. It’s best used in combination with other ingredients for those needing stronger odour or sweat control.

Perfect mixing blends below

Yes, they are all good in their own way but with their cons.

I’ve prepared the perfect mixes for you below so don’t worry.

Making your own deodorant is like making a cake. Half of it is like the flour (powders), and the other half is like the butter (oils). Absorption + moisturising. It is that simple, I don’t know why people buy commercial deodorants.

But I suspect it’s a mixture of habit (those are hard to let go of, believe me), fear of smelling, thinking it takes too long to learn to make them, not having an interest in making them since, oh well, they’re in the shops for cheap.

Please learn to make your own! Below, the perfect mixes for everyone. Again, bookmark this page for when you’re ready to make your own. Thank you.

For everyone

Baking soda: 20% (stops smells)
Arrowroot: 40% (keeps you dry)
Cornstarch: 20% (extra dryness)
Kaolin Clay: 20% (smooth on skin)

For heavy sweaters

Baking Soda: 30% (extra smell stopper)
Arrowroot: 25% (dryness)
Cornstarch: 15% (more dryness)
Diatomaceous Earth: 15% (soaks up sweat)
Magnesium Hydroxide: 15% (gentle on skin)

For sensitive skin

Magnesium Hydroxide: 40% (gentle and effective)
Arrowroot: 30% (keeps you dry gently)
Kaolin Clay: 30% (super soft on skin)

For those who have strong odour, here’s an odour-buster powder mix

Baking Soda: 25% (strong odor neutralizer)
Activated Charcoal: 20% (captures and neutralizes odors)
Diatomaceous Earth: 25% (absorbs sweat and odors)
Cornstarch: 15% (keeps skin dry)
Kaolin Clay: 15% (for smooth application)

For me

This is the perfect mix for me, it includes the oils and not just the powders (so basically, this is my formula for DIY deodorant):

Baking Soda: 10% (odour fighter)
Activated Charcoal: 1% (traps toxins)
Diatomaceous Earth: 10% (keeps you dry)
Arrowroot Powder: 14% (keeps you dry)
Kaolin Clay: 15% (super soft on skin)
Shea Butter: 25% (luxurious feel)
Coconut Oil: 25% (for a smooth application)
Essential oils (8 drops lavender, 8 drops tea tree, 5 citrus one like mandarin)

The below are extras that I wrote together with ChatGPT to help you with the process and other things that you might find very helpful.

Above you have all the information I believe you need when it comes to powders and DIY deodorants, but the below might complement it nicely.

Let’s get started.

Making your DIY deodorant step-by-step

Making your own deodorant is easier than baking a cake! Just mix, set, and apply. Here’s how you do it in simple steps:

Measure the ingredients: Use the percentages to get your powders and oils ready. Remember, it’s about half powders, half oils.
Mix the powders: Combine all your dry ingredients (like baking soda and arrowroot powder) in a bowl.
Melt the oils: Gently heat the oils until they’re liquid.
Combine: Slowly mix your oils into the powders until everything is well blended. Keep stirring while it cools down so the powders don’t sit at the bottom.
Add Essential Oils: If you like, stir in a few drops of essential oils for scent and extra benefits (wait til the mix has cooled down a bit, when it starts to get thicker, just make sure it’s not too hot so the essential oils don’t lose their properties or evaporate).
Set it: Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool until solid.
Apply: Use your fingers or a small spatula to apply a small amount to your underarms.

That’s it! You’ve made your very own deodorant.

Benefits of each oil (Shea butter and coconut)

Shea Butter:

Moisturises skin without clogging pores.
Soothes irritated skin, great after shaving.

Coconut oil:

Naturally antibacterial, keeping odour-causing bacteria at bay.
Hydrates skin, leaving it smooth and soft.

Each oil brings its own set of benefits, making your homemade deodorant not just a necessity but a luxury.

A very simple essential oils guide for your DIY deodorant

Adding a drop or two of essential oils can turn your DIY deodorant into a fragrant masterpiece. Here’s a quick guide to some favourites:

Tea tree: Brilliant for its antibacterial kick, keeping those odour-causing germs away.
Lavender: Not just smells lovely, it’s also calming for your skin.
Peppermint: Gives a cooling sensation, perfect for a refreshing feel.
Lemon: Brightens your day with its citrusy scent and helps keep your underarms fresh.
Rosemary: Great for its antimicrobial properties and invigorating scent.

Remember, essential oils are potent. A little goes a long way, so start with a few drops and always mix them into your carrier oil blend to avoid irritation.

Mixing your essential oils (don’t go above 1-2% of the total amount of product)

Creating your own DIY deodorant gives you the freedom to experiment with scents.

Here are a few mixes to get you started, with recommended essential oil amounts per 100 grams of deodorant:

Refreshing citrus burst

10 drops of Lemon Oil: For a fresh, clean scent.
5 drops of Orange Oil: Adds a sweet, invigorating note.
3 drops of Grapefruit Oil: Provides an uplifting zesty twist.

Calming floral

8 drops of Lavender Oil: Known for its soothing properties.
5 drops of Geranium Oil: Offers a floral, calming aroma.
2 drops of Ylang-Ylang Oil: Adds a rich, deep floral scent.

Minty freshness

10 drops of Peppermint Oil: Cooling and refreshing.
5 drops of Tea Tree Oil: For its antimicrobial benefits.
2 drops of Eucalyptus Oil: Adds a sharp, clean note.

Woodsy escape

7 drops of Cedarwood Oil: Brings a warm, woodsy scent.
5 drops of Rosemary Oil: Adds a clear, refreshing aroma.
3 drops of Frankincense Oil: Provides a sweet and balsamic undertone.

Energising herb

10 drops of Rosemary Oil: Stimulating and invigorating.
4 drops of Lemon Oil: For a burst of citrus.
3 drops of Basil Oil: Adds a sweet, herbaceous layer.

When mixing essential oils into your deodorant, always ensure they’re well dispersed throughout your carrier oil and powder mix to avoid any skin irritation.

Remember, skin sensitivity varies, so adjust the number of drops according to your preference and tolerance.

Always do a patch test with a new batch, especially if you’re trying out a new essential oil combination.

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting your DIY deodorant? Here are some quick fixes:

Irritation or Rash: Might be too much baking soda. Try reducing it and add more arrowroot or kaolin clay instead.
Too Hard or Crumbly: Needs more oils. Melt a bit more coconut oil or shea butter into your mix.
Too Soft or Melty: Add more powders like arrowroot or cornstarch to firm it up.
Not Effective on Odour: Boost the baking soda or add activated charcoal for extra odour control.
Staining Clothes: If using activated charcoal, ensure it’s well mixed and consider reducing the amount.
No Scent or Fades Quickly: Add a few more drops of your chosen essential oils, but not too much to avoid skin irritation.

Remember, making your own deodorant is a bit of trial and error.

Don’t be afraid to adjust the recipe until you find what works best for you!

That’s all I’ve got

Stepping into the world of DIY deodorants is more than just mixing ingredients; it’s about embracing your wellbeing, understanding what you’re putting on your skin, and taking a stand against the unnecessary chemicals found in many commercial products.

You’re not just creating a deodorant; you’re creating a piece of personal care that truly cares for you.

With every powder you choose and every oil you blend, you’re making decisions that affect not just how you smell but how you feel and how you interact with the world around you.

This guide isn’t just instructions; it’s an invitation to explore, to experiment, and to empower yourself with knowledge and choice.

So, bookmark this page, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the rewarding world of DIY deodorant making.