There are several natural ingredients that help neutralize sweat odor. They are an option to consider when preparing homemade deodorants. What ingredients can you use?
Bad odor in the armpits is a problem that we all experience at some point, as it is the consequence of sweating. As a general rule, deodorants of different types are often used to combat it, what happens is that some can irritate the skin. For this reason, more and more people are turning to homemade deodorants, a solution that although it can help us to take care of our skin, also has a series of consequences if care is not taken.
Perspiration is a necessary process for the body that favors the elimination of toxins and regulates body temperature. However, sometimes it produces a very annoying smell, which can be embarrassing and uncomfortable both for oneself and for those around us.
Today, there are many types of deodorants to neutralize perspiration odors and control excess sweating. However, many people have sensitive skin that does not tolerate some chemicals or alcohol in these cosmetics and as a consequence can present discomfort and irritation.
Likewise, some people use homemade deodorants in these cases, despite the fact that their effectiveness has not been proven. These are believed to be able to keep the skin clean, free of bad odors and control sweating. For this reason, it is advisable to go to a specialist, especially if you have any abnormality on your skin or suffer from any type of allergy.
How to prepare the best homemade deodorants
Citrus natural deodorant
Some cosmetologists point out that citrus fruits help cleanse the skin and prevent the appearance of black spots on the armpits. Apparently, its delicious concentrated aromas are usually effective in neutralizing annoying odors. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this.
Ingredients
- The skin of three oranges.
- The skin of three lemons.
- 1 cup of sea salt
- 3 tablespoons of baking soda.
- 1 liter of water.
Preparation
- Grate the skins of both citrus fruits and boil them in a liter of water.
- Once the preparation boils, strain very well and reserve for the shower time.
- When preparing the water for the bath, add the previous preparation and, later, add the sea salt and the three tablespoons of bicarbonate.
- Use this mixture as a deodorant and relaxant for the body.
Lavender natural deodorant
Lavender has a soft and delicious odor that permeates the environment and helps combat strong and bothersome odors. A study from the University of Guanajuato highlights the properties of its aroma but notes that it does not have antimicrobial properties. Thus, there are no scientific studies that support or deny its effects on the skin in the medium and long term.
However, several people make homemade lavender deodorants. Below you can find the steps to follow.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of infusion or lavender water.
- ½ cup of apple cider vinegar.
Preparation
- Mix the lavender water well with ½ cup of vinegar, in a glass jar.
- Cover the mixture well and let it concentrate for 10 days, at room temperature.
- After 10 days, filter the preparation and use daily, mixing one part of this compound with two parts of water.
- Before applying the deodorant, the armpits should be cleaned and dried very well.
Natural deodorant powder
This natural deodorant usually comes in handy for those who can’t stand cream deodorants. It should be noted that no scientific evidence was found to support the mitigation of the bad odor or to warn of possible side effects.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of baking soda. In this case, it is important to mention that this ingredient can have adverse health effects.
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch.
- 10 drops of lavender, mint, lemon or sage essential oil.
Preparation
- Mix the ingredients.
- Apply in the armpits in small daily amounts.
Natural linseed deodorant
This natural deodorant is an alternative to industrial products for some people. However, no scientific evidence was found that flaxseed works as a deodorizing substance, although a study from the University of Carabobo attributes it regenerative properties for the skin.
We tell you how to prepare it.
Ingredients
- 100 ml of purified water.
- 1 tablespoon of flaxseed.
- 1 tablespoon of baking soda.
- 10 drops of essential oil to taste.
Warning: as we already mentioned, the use of sodium bicarbonate is not recommended as it is a potential generator of adverse health reactions.
Preparation
- Pour the flaxseeds into a bowl of purified water and bring them to a boil.
- When it is boiling, remove the mixture from the heat and strain the seeds to separate them from the water.
- Add one tablespoon of baking soda and 10 drops of your favorite essential oil to the water.
- Finally, apply to the underarm area and store the excess in a jar.
Lemon and rosemary, one of the best homemade deodorants
Rosemary has astringent and disinfecting properties that help to deeply cleanse underarm skin. In addition, a study by Indiana University, led by Dr. Sachiko Koyama, attributes rosemary to regenerative properties for the skin, due to the presence of a compound called beta-caryophyllene that is also present in lavender.
Lemon is known to be a natural cleanser, although there are no scientific studies that support this property. However, a thesis from the University of Cuenca indicates that lemon can cause adverse effects such as rashes, irritation or allergy on the skin, in addition to dermatitis.
Ingredients
- 100 ml of water.
- 4 tablespoons of dried rosemary leaves.
- 20 ml of 90º alcohol.
- 10 drops of witch hazel essential oil.
- 5 drops of lemon juice.
Preparation
- Bring the water to a boil and, once it is boiling, add the four tablespoons of dried rosemary leaves.
- Turn off the heat, cover and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to obtain an infusion.
- When it is cold, add the 90º alcohol, the 10 drops of essential oil and the lemon drops.
- Mix all the ingredients very well and apply to the armpit area, so that it hydrates and protects it from bad odors.
- The remaining mixture can be kept in a glass jar, for a month.
Remember that it is advisable to consult the doctor first, whether or not you have skin abnormalities.