Question 1

Shea Butter

Accepted Answer

Shea butter gives this deodorant its soft, creamy base. It helps the product glide easily during application and leaves skin feeling conditioned rather than dry or tight.

Question 2

Coconut Oil

Accepted Answer

Coconut oil contributes to the spreadability of the formula and helps balance the firmer ingredients. It also adds a lightweight, familiar feel that many people find comfortable for daily use.

Question 3

Beeswax

Accepted Answer

Wax provides structure, helping the deodorant stay solid while still soft enough to apply. The amount used keeps the formula from feeling greasy or melting too quickly during warmer months.

Question 4

Tamanu Oil

Accepted Answer

Tamanu oil adds weight and richness to the formula, helping balance the lighter oils and powders. It contributes to the overall feel of the deodorant on skin, giving it a more substantial, grounded texture rather than a dry or chalky finish.

Question 5

Arrowroot Powder

Accepted Answer

Arrowroot helps absorb moisture on the skin’s surface and contributes to a smoother, less oily finish. This supports comfort throughout the day without attempting to stop perspiration

Question 6

Diatomaceous Earth

Accepted Answer

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is included as one of the dry powders in this recipe. It helps influence how the deodorant feels after application, contributing to a less slick finish and a more comfortable wear throughout the day. Its presence is part of what makes this formula feel different from oil-only deodorants. Note: Use food-grade DE!

Question 7

Kaolin Clay

Accepted Answer

Kaolin clay adds a soft, smooth element to the powder blend and helps refine the texture of the finished deodorant. It contributes to a balanced feel on the skin and supports the overall consistency of the formula.

Question 8

Vitamin E Oil

Accepted Answer

Vitamin E is included for its antioxidant properties and to support the shelf life of the oils in the recipe. It also adds a subtle conditioning quality to the final product.

Question 9

Essential Oils (optional)

Accepted Answer

Essential oils are used here strictly for scent preference. They are completely optional and can be adjusted or omitted depending on sensitivity and personal preference. If you use fewer essential oils, the natural scent of neem oil will be more noticeable.

Question 10

Neem Oil

Accepted Answer

Neem oil has a naturally strong aroma and is included as part of the original formula’s scent profile. Some people don’t mind it at all, while others prefer to balance it with essential oils. Its presence is intentional, and reducing or removing it will change the overall character of the deodorant.

Question 11

Will this deodorant stop sweating?

Accepted Answer

No. This recipe is not an antiperspirant. It does not block sweat or alter the body’s natural perspiration process. It’s designed to support freshness and help manage odor for some people while allowing the skin to function normally.

Question 12

Does this work for everyone?

Accepted Answer

No deodorant works the same way for every body. Some people find this recipe works very well for daily use, while others may need to reapply more often or prefer a different formula altogether. Factors like activity level, climate, hormones, and individual body chemistry all play a role.

Question 13

Can I make this without essential oils?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Essential oils are optional and included for scent preference only. If you leave them out or reduce the amount used, the natural aroma of the base ingredients—especially neem oil—will be more noticeable.

Question 14

Why does this smell different than store-bought deodorant?

Accepted Answer

This recipe doesn’t use synthetic fragrance. The scent comes from the natural ingredients themselves, along with any essential oils you choose to add. Natural aromas can be more earthy, herbal, or subtle than conventional deodorants, which often rely on fragrance blends designed to mask odor completely.

Question 15

How often should I reapply?

Accepted Answer

Reapplication varies from person to person. Some people apply once daily, while others prefer to reapply later in the day, especially during warm weather or increased activity. This is normal for non-antiperspirant deodorants.

Question 16

Is this suitable for sensitive skin?

Accepted Answer

This recipe was originally developed as a baking soda–free option, which many people with sensitive skin prefer. That said, sensitivities can still occur. Always patch test before regular use, especially if you’re sensitive to essential oils or trying this recipe for the first time.

Question 17

Can I adjust the recipe?

Accepted Answer

Minor adjustments—such as reducing essential oils or choosing a different carrier oil—are common in DIY skincare. Any changes will affect scent, texture, and feel, so it’s best to adjust gradually and test as you go.

Question 18

Is this considered a natural deodorant?

Accepted Answer

This recipe uses plant-based oils, waxes, and powders, but “natural” can mean different things to different people. Rather than labeling it, I focus on transparency—what’s in it, why it’s there, and how it feels on the skin.

Question 19

Can I use this if I’m switching from conventional antiperspirant?

Accepted Answer

Some people notice an adjustment period when switching from antiperspirants to deodorants that don’t block sweat. During that time, you may find you need to reapply more often or experiment with how much you use. This can vary widely from person to person.

Question 20

How should I store this deodorant?

Accepted Answer

Store the deodorant in a cool, dry place away from direct heat or sunlight. Because it’s oil-based, warmer temperatures can soften the texture. If that happens, simply let it cool and firm up again.