http://www.care2.com/greenliving/deodorant-or-antiperspirants.html
The Difference Between Deodorant and Antiperspirants
By Annie B. Bond
Why choose a natural deodorant over an antiperspirant?
Most people think that antiperspirants and deodorants are the same thing, but they aren’t. Antiperspirants work by clogging, closing, or blocking the pores with powerful astringents such as aluminum salts so that they can’t release sweat. (Note that aluminum can accumulate in the brain.) Deodorants work by neutralizing the smell of the sweat and by antiseptic action against bacteria. Deodorants are preferable because they don’t interfere with sweating, a natural cooling process.
Baking soda works wonders because it neutralizes the odor of sweat. Just sprinkle a light covering of baking soda onto a damp washcloth. Pat on. Don’t rinse.
This tip—just using baking soda—has saved me on many occasion, especially when traveling.
Basic Deodorant Powder
1/2 cup baking soda
1/2 cup cornstarch
A few drops essential oils such as lavender or cinnamon
Place the ingredients in a glass jar. Shake to blend. Sprinkle a light covering of the powder on a damp washcloth. Pat on. Don’t rinse.
Basic Liquid Deodorant
1/4 cup each witch hazel extract, aloe vera gel, and mineral water
1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin
A few drops antibacterial essential oils such as lavender (optional)
Combine the ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake to blend.
Makes 3/4 cup
Shelf life: Indefinite.
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37 comments
add your comment »Great article. Thanks for sharing.
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why is this inappropriate?
I have added cornstarch and baking soda to any cream deodorant. It tends to be a bit messy, but works very well. Not much of the two ingredients are needed and use sparingly. Good luck trying this.
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why is this inappropriate?
I have added cornstarch and baking soda to any cream deodorant. It is somewhat messy but does work. Not much CS or BS is needed to be effective. Good luck with trying this. Remember when using it; there is such a thing as too much so apply sparingly!
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why is this inappropriate?
This is really interesting. I now use a Jameson product with tea tree oil in it, and tea tree oil is a natural antibacterial remedy. I didn't know baking soda would work too. What about the crystal? I think a cream deodorant can be made by adding cream to the powder, is that right? Will it keep fresh or go bad though?
I'm trying to write an article on natural deodorants for my beauty by health blog at http://www.beaureview.net . If anyone has more advice or would like to contribute to the research, please let me know!
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why is this inappropriate?
Arm & Hammer Backing Soda does not have aluminum in it just thought you would like to know.It's 100 % Pure Sodium Bicarbonate
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why is this inappropriate?
For those wishing to purchase Lavilin in New Zealand you can do this through www.lavilin.co.nz.
Thanks
Lavilin NZ
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why is this inappropriate?
I've tried many different deodorants and I can tell you, nothing works like Sodium Bicarbonate, I can actually use it without worrying about stinking in any enviroment, no other type of deodorant has passed that test for me.
It's a shame no commercial products have fully embraced it, the only one I know of is by a company called Lush, here in the UK but that's pretty expensive.
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You can also find very effective organic deodorants derived from 100% Natural ingredients at lovlis.com , don't block exit of toxins and perspiration and yet provide perfect protection from the odor
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Just remember to choose an aluminum free baking soda..I use Red's :) Does arm and hammer provide one? It'd be awesome if they did...I use their baking soda for other things around the house.
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@ Ali L. Nope, none.
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