5 Essential Oils to Use in DIY Deodorants
A simple homemade deodorant usually consists of carrier oils, baking soda and/or starch and essential oils. Thick carrier oils, such as shea butter, cocoa butter or coconut oil, make up the creamy base of the deodorant, as well as moisturize and nourish the skin. Baking soda and starch are absorbents; they absorb sweat, helping to keep your armpits and feet dry. Finally, essential oils inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria and give the deodorant its subtle fragrance. While absolutely all essential oils have antibacterial properties, some are better suited for DIY deodorants than others.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil (melaleuca oil) is distilled from the leaves of the Australian tea tree. It is widely used in traditional medicine to treat a whole range of skin conditions, from acne to dandruff to skin infections, due to its antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties. Tea tree essential oil is considered one of the best antibacterial agents for natural deodorants. However, it has a quite strong camphoraceous odor, so you might want to mix it with a lighter-scented oil for some balance.
Check this out: 4 Benefits and Uses of Tea Tree Oil for Your Skin
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is distilled from the flower spikes of garden lavender or spike lavender. It is considered one of the most versatile essential oils. Lavender oil is widely used in aromatherapy due to its calming and relaxing properties. As a skin treatment, it is valued for its ability to kill bacteria and fungi, soothe itchy and irritated skin, and stimulate skin regeneration. If you add some lavender oil to your DIY deodorant, it will help prevent irritation in the armpits after shaving.
Check this out: 5 Benefits of Lavender Oil for Your Skin, Hair and Overall Health
Bergamot Oil
Bergamot oil is an excellent natural deodorizer. It is pressed from the peel of bergamot oranges. Like other essential oils, bergamot oil has antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiseptic properties, but what makes it really special is its fresh, bright, invigorating citrus scent with spicy and floral notes. It will give you a mood and energy boost for the whole day. However, you should keep in mind that citrus essential oils increase skin photosensitivity, so you shouldn’t apply homemade deodorant with bergamot oil before sunbathing.
Check this out: Popular Types of Citrus Essential Oils and Their Use in Aromatherapy
Clary Sage Oil
Like lavender oil, clary sage oil is produced by steam distillation. It isn’t the most popular essential oil, but it is one of the best oils to use in homemade deodorants. In addition to its antimicrobial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, it tones and tightens the skin, soothes razor burn, and speeds up the healing of injured skin. This essential oil is perfect for those who like complex and delicate smells.
Check this out: 5 Amazing Benefits of Sage for Your Skin and Hair
Lemongrass Oil
Lemongrass oil is extracted from the stalks and leaves of the lemongrass plant. It has a fresh, grassy, earthy scent with citrus notes that helps relieve stress and anxiety. Lemongrass oil is a great deodorant ingredient due to its antibacterial, antiseptic, astringent, toning and skin healing properties. It easily kills bacteria responsible for body odor and tightens pores, helping reduce sweating.
Check this out: 3 Tips for Making Your Own Essential Oil Blends
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