It’s a sad truth—sometimes you don’t realize you forgot to put on deodorant until after you’ve already started sweating. Swiping a solid stick over that swampy mess isn’t ideal, especially since it’s likely bacteria has already started stewing. The last thing you may think of is a DIY deodorant, but hear us out.
Our easy DIY deodorant recipe and spray will keep you cool and dry, with no need to worry about aerosol cans or chemicals. No T-shirt–staining aluminum, butane, artificial fragrances, or toxic alcohols either.
But just because it’s natural doesn’t mean it doesn’t work. This is one of the best homemade deodorant recipes, that is also super-simple and incredibly effective. Since sweat contains some lipids and proteins that feed the bacteria on your skin [1]—the process that leads to funky odors—antifungal and antibacterial tea tree oil [2] is added to keep the underarm area clean. Lavender contributes more antiseptic power [3], plus it softly dilutes the strong scent of tea tree.
The third ingredient to create your very own DIY deodorant is a surprising one, but it’s important for harnessing the properties of the oils: high-proof vodka. We know from chemistry class that oil and water don’t mix. A tiny bit of alcohol acts as an emulsifier—and the stronger it is, the better the oil dissolution. (So, better break out the hard stuff.) This solution will help to evenly distribute the oil throughout the mixture once water is added. (While diffusing essential oils with water works fine in many cases, for bacteria- and odor-fighting, getting the maximum power out of the oils is best.)
Ready to try this super easy DIY deodorant recipe? Learn how to make spray deodorant with just a few steps!
Tea Tree Lavender Deodorant Spray
Ingredients
½ ounce high-proof vodka
16 drops lavender oil
24 drops tea tree oil
3 ounces water
Directions
Pour vodka into a glass spray bottle. Drop in essential oils and swish the mixture well. Just add water, shake well, and spray!
And presto…You just made a vodka deodorant! Take that high school science class. And this DIY deodorant recipe is easy to make any time you need it.
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Dana Poblete
Dana's love for all creatures under the sun (bugs, too) drives her in her advocacy for ethical eating, environmental sustainability, and cruelty-free living. A natural born islander, she surfs when she can, and writes, always.