These days there are lots of chemicals in the stuff we put on and in our bodies and deodorants are no exception. The biggest worries are aluminum compounds (antiperspirants), parabens (preservatives) and triclosan (preservative and bactericide), because they can pass through unbroken skin. Also, from my researches it appears that (along with our toothpaste) a lot of these products are made overseas.
So, what to do? The obvious answer is to do it yourself! After some fooling around I came up with the following formulation -
1/8 cup bicarb
1/8 cup arrowroot
4 tbsp coconut oil
10 drops vanilla essence
It is even possible to home produce the arrowroot in most of Australia if you so desire, it is hardy down to Zone 8, otherwise it is available in supermarkets.
The above amounts are designed to fit into the small round plastic container used by Chinese restaurants to send home soy or red sauce in to go with your mini spring rolls, they hold about 125 mls.
Making it is easy, soften the coconut oil to a paste and then stir in the other ingredients until well mixed. Here in western Sydney it gets pretty warm in summer and to keep the finished deodorant as a paste rather than a sludgy liquid, putting it in the fridge is required.
To apply it I got some make-up sponges ($3.00 for 12 from the local El Cheapo) as suggested by Linda (I don’t use much make-up these days) and it works really well. Apply after a shower and it will keep you fresh all day.
