DIY Deodorant Without Baking Soda (For Sensitive Skin)

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I don’t know what it is about deodorants, but I seriously love making them. There’s just something about melting everything together and seeing it turn into that smooth, creamy texture that makes me weirdly happy lol. It feels so satisfying knowing exactly what’s going on my skin no mystery ingredients, no irritation, just natural ingredients that actually work.

I’ve made a few different kinds over time (you can check out my tallow deodorant recipe too. It’s one of my favorites, but this no baking soda deodorant has been my go-to lately. It’s super gentle, smells amazing, and doesn’t make my underarms burn or itch like some of the store-bought “natural” ones do.

If you’ve struggled with baking soda deodorants or just want something cleaner and softer, this one’s for you.

Deodorant Without Baking Soda Recipe:

I know finding a natural deodorant that works can feel impossible, especially if your skin gets irritated easily. I’ve tried so many “clean” deodorants that left me red, itchy, or just… sweaty. That’s why I started making my own, and this no baking soda deodorant has been a total game changer.

It’s creamy, soothing, and effective without the irritation that comes from baking soda. Plus, it smells amazing (you get to pick your own essential oil blend!) and feels luxurious to apply.

Ingredients:

• 9 tablespoons shea butter 
• 6 tablespoons beeswax
• 4 1/2 tablespoons carrier oil 
• 1 cup magnesium hydroxide 
• 7 1/2 tablespoons zinc oxide (SEE NOTE BELOW)
• 6 tablespoons arrowroot powder (or corn starch) 
• 180 drops essential oils 
• Deodorant tubes 

Instructions:

1. Melt the Base

Start by combining shea butter, beeswax, and your carrier oil (like jojoba, coconut, or almond) in a double boiler. Gently heat everything until it’s completely melted and smooth. This is the rich, moisturizing base that will keep your underarms soft and hydrated.

2. Mix the Powders

While your oils are melting, grab a separate bowl and whisk together magnesium hydroxide, zinc oxide, and arrowroot powder (or corn starch). These ingredients work together to help absorb moisture and neutralize odor no baking soda needed!

If you’d rather skip the zinc oxide, you can simply add a bit more magnesium hydroxide to your recipe instead. It does a great job at neutralizing odor-causing bacteria without irritating your skin perfect if you have sensitive underarms. You can also try kaolin clay as a gentle alternative that helps absorb moisture and keeps your deodorant soft and smooth.

3. Add the Essential Oils

Once your base is fully melted, remove it from heat and stir in your favorite essential oils.

You can use lavender for a soft floral scent, tea tree for antibacterial benefits, or even a fresh citrus blend.

I like using around 180 drops total for a nice, subtle fragrance (that’s a 2% dilution rate).

4. Combine and Pour

Slowly add your powder mixture into the melted oils, stirring well to make sure it’s smooth and creamy. Then, quickly pour the mixture into deodorant tubes before it starts to harden.

Let them sit overnight at room temperature to fully set.

5. Use and Love It

Once firm, your deodorant is ready to use!

Store your tubes in a cool place, and they’ll last for months.

Notes:

You can mix and match essential oils to suit your mood or season peppermint and eucalyptus are great for a refreshing scent, while vanilla and lavender make a cozy combo.

This recipe makes around 4-6 deodorant tubes, so you’ll have extras for gifts (or backups for your gym bag).