10 Natural Alternatives to Deodorant for Healthy Pits

Want to smell good? Deodorant is essential if you have body odor. You don’t have to use only traditional options—there are other choices. If you want to avoid certain ingredients but still smell nice, try a natural deodorant.

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It’s important to consider the downsides of traditional deodorants. Many of them contain ingredients like parabens and aluminum, which some people believe could be harmful to health.

A 2018 study suggested that aluminum might change how the body reacts to estrogen, possibly causing long-term problems. Additionally, a 2017 study found that women with breast cancer tended to use antiperspirants more often than those without cancer. A 2013 study indicated that aluminum found in breast tissue could lead to oxidative damage and inflammation.

While the American Cancer Society states there is no clear link between parabens or aluminum and cancer, more research is needed on the risks of traditional deodorants. Fortunately, many natural alternatives effectively fight sweat and body odor.

Here are 10 Natural Deodorant Alternatives

The following items are great alternatives to deodorant that you might be able to find in your food cabinet.

1. Hazel witch

You should always have witch hazel on hand because it is so useful. It kills bacteria and removes excess moisture from the skin because it is an astringent and anti-inflammatory.

Its ability to absorb quickly into the skin makes it a great substitute for traditional deodorant. It also eliminates smells quickly.

The biggest issue with this procedure is how fast it goes off. You’ll have to keep reapplying it throughout the day.

How you use

Rub some witch hazel onto your underarms using a cotton swab or a reusable cotton towel.

2. Cornstarch or baking soda

Baking and cooking aren’t the only uses for these common kitchen items. They also make excellent natural hygiene products.

Because of its high alkalinity and the acidity that the body naturally produces, baking soda might irritate the skin of people with sensitive skin.

Before you use it as a deodorant, make sure to do a patch test.

How to use

Add a little water to 1/8 teaspoon and rub it under your arms.

A mix of baking soda and cornstarch can also help eliminate smells and sweat. After mixing one part baking soda with six parts cornstarch, put the powder under your arms.

3. lemons

If nature gives you lemons, why not use them as deodorant?

You might be shocked to learn that putting lemon juice on your armpits is an easy way to eliminate smells. Citric acid, which is found in lots of lemon juice, kills bugs that cause bad smells.

Do not put lemon juice on right after shaving. Lemon is very sour so that it will hurt.

How to use

Take a half-lemon and squeeze out a teaspoon of juice. Put some on a cotton ball and put it right on your armpits. Keep the lemon in the fridge to make it even more soothing.

4. Apple cider vinegar.

Apple cider vinegar has a variety of applications and benefits, including serving as a deodorant substitute.

How To Use

Combine one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and one tablespoon of water. Apply the mixture to your underarms using a cotton pad or reusable cloth.

5. Milk of Magnesia

Milk of Magnesia is an excellent alternative to deodorant. It effectively deodorizes and absorbs moisture. A little goes a long way, so it’s economical, which is fantastic!

To Use

Apply roughly ½ teaspoon of liquid milk of magnesia to a cotton ball (or your fingertips) and rub it under your arms. It will dry in around 30 seconds.

6. Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a great natural alternative to deodorant, especially for people with sensitive skin. It soothes the skin and helps reduce body odor. Aloe vera has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which can help fight the bacteria that cause odor in your underarms. Bacteria break down sweat, leading to the smell. By using aloe vera, you can prevent or lessen body odor.

This option is simple because you don’t need to mix ingredients. You can use fresh aloe vera from the plant or buy a bottle of aloe gel. Just apply it directly to your underarm area. That’s all you need to do!

7. Corn Starch

Thanks to my mom’s advice, I have used corn starch as a deodorant since I was a teenager. Corn starch helps prevent sweat and fights odor by absorbing moisture on the skin.

You can apply cornstarch under your arms with your fingers. To make it even better, you can mix in a little baking soda for extra protection.

8. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is my favorite natural deodorant. It is gentle and effective at reducing odor. Coconut oil also has antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties, which help fight the bacteria that cause odor under your arms.

To use coconut oil, take about ¼ teaspoon or less and rub it under your arms.

9. Baking soda & coconut oil

Baking soda is an easy and cheap alternative to store-bought deodorants. You can use it as a powder or mix it with coconut oil to make a soft bar. This bar can be applied every day.

10. Rubbing alcohol

Rubbing alcohol kills bacteria, including those that cause odor. It is also cheaper than regular deodorants.

How to use

To use it, fill a spray bottle with rubbing alcohol and spray it on your armpits.

Homemade Natural Deodorant Recipe

You only need three ingredients to make a simple and effective deodorant. Coconut oil is good for your skin, so this recipe is great for your feet, chest, or back.

Total Time: 5 minutes (Yields: 30–90 applications)

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup coconut oil
1/2 cup baking soda
20 drops of essential oil of your choice (Scent recommendations for females: sage, ylang-ylang, jasmine, lemon; for males: cypress, rosemary oil)
Empty deodorant containers

DIRECTIONS:

1. Place coconut oil into a bowl. Combine it with baking soda, then incorporate essential oils. Blend thoroughly.

2. Store in a deodorant container or a glass jar. Keep in a cool place (coconut oil will melt).

3. To apply, use your fingers to dab and then rub or roll it onto your underarms. Allow a few minutes to pass before coming into contact with any fabric.

4. For best results, use twice daily.