Forget quizzes about which Muppet you are, do you know your deodorant personality? Because, yeah, it’s a real thing. For example, is your chemistry compatible with baking soda-based formulas, or does it cause you to break out in a rash? Do you prefer a moisturizing base or something oil-free that won’t leave stains on snug fitting clothing?
If you said oil-free, you’re going to love this simple recipe. Inspired by a comment on the effectiveness of milk of magnesia as a deodorant, I decided to do a little digging and . . . well . . lots of people swear by the stuff. Problem is, although the active ingredient in milk of magnesia is simply a poorly absorbed form of magnesium called magnesium hydroxide, most contain bleach (sodium hypochlorite) as an inactive ingredient . . . definitely not something I want to include in my personal care routine.
Although I was able to find one brand that only contains magnesium and water, I decided to experiment with another form I already had on hand. Magnesium oil – which is not actually an oil but a mixture of magnesium chloride and water that feels oily to the touch – is considered one of the best types of magnesium for topical use.
I began using it as a deodorant along with some essential oils and a smidge of glycerin to mellow out the magnesium and it worked amazingly well. Although I’ll probably return to my other favorite recipes during the winter, I prefer this lighter version for summer.
Why it works
Mineral salts have long been used as deodorants, and it is believed they work by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that create body odor. However, most are made from potassium aluminum sulfate (potassium alum for short) or ammonium alum, which are both forms of aluminum. Although proponents of potassium/ammonium alum say that the aluminum molecules are too large to be absorbed through skin, there doesn’t seem to be any evidence that definitely proves that to be true. I’ve shared with you before why I avoid aluminum-containing deodorants, so obviously most mineral-salt deodorants are not an option I’ll consider.
Magnesium chloride, on the other hand, is a highly bioavailable form of magnesium that most of us struggle to get enough of. (source) As I mention in this post, it fuels about 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including energy production at a cellular level. It helps to relax achy muscles, mitigate the effects of stress, calm the mind by supporting the production of the neurotransmitter GABA, support restful sleep and more.
That’s not to say that this recipe will work for everyone. As I mentioned at the top of this post, some do better with recipes that include baking soda and some do better with sensitive skin formulas.
The good news is that if you try the magnesium oil version and it doesn’t work for you, at least you’ve nourished your body with an essential mineral! And if you use the milk of magnesia version you’ve got a laxative on hand if you ever need it. 🙂
Now let’s talk essential oil blends
The current blend I’m using is a mixture of equal parts lavender and black pepper essential oil, but there are so many options to choose from: sweet orange, tea tree, juniper berry, cedarwood atlas, frankincense (carteri, frereana, serrata, and sacra), sweet marjoram, patchouli, sandalwood (sustainably harvested), and vetiver.
All of these essential oils listed above are considered safe for use during pregnancy (after the first trimester) and breastfeeding. A 1% dilution (7 drops in the recipe below) is recommended for pregnant women. Click here to learn more about using essential oils during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
In terms of blends, here are a few blend ideas to get you started.
Woodsy
- 6 drops patchouli (where to buy patchouli)
- 6 drops vetiver (where to buy vetiver)
Smooth & Luxurious
- 6 drops frankincense (where to buy frankincense)
- 6 drops vanilla oleoresin
Light & Fresh
- 4 drops sweet orange (where to buy sweet orange)
- 4 drops lavender (where to buy lavender)
- 4 drops vetiver (where to buy vetiver)
Bonus Tip
Though magnesium is incredibly helpful for odor, it doesn’t absorb moisture. However, I’ve found that applying a bit of arrowroot powder or cornstarch with a dedicated makeup brush helps keep me feeling dry. I tried adding it to the magnesium oil but it turned the oil into a gel after awhile, so I recommend storing them separately.
Homemade Roll-On Deodorant
Ingredients
Makes two 1 ounce roller bottles
- 4 tablespoons magnesium oil or milk of magnesia without additives
- 1/2 teaspoon glycerin (can omit if using milk of magnesia)
- 12-24 drops essential oils (options listed above)
- arrowroot powder or cornstarch and a makeup application brush, optional
Instructions
Combine ingredients together and pour into a roller bottle (I use these) or glass spray bottle (like these)
To Use
Apply as you would regular roll-on deodorant, but be aware that it’s probably best not to apply right after shaving as it may cause a stinging sensation.
Some people find that topical application creates a tingling or slight burning sensation when used in general, not just after shaving. It tends to fade as overall magnesium levels rise, so if you find that you experience tingling/burning, you may want to dilute your deodorant a bit and work up to the full concentration slowly.
As mentioned above, though magnesium is incredibly helpful for odor, it doesn’t absorb moisture. After applying it and allowing it to absorb for 30-60 seconds, I’ve found that applying a bit of arrowroot powder or cornstarch with a dedicated makeup brush helps keep me feeling dry.
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I just learned of this fantastic deodorant “secret” about a month ago. I was very skeptical at first, but after using it daily and running several “pit versus pit” comparisons with my homemade paste deodorant, natural stick deodorant, and a charcoal-based deodorant, I am amazed that it works best for me. I use the milk of magnesia with a bit of witch hazel, and essential oils.
This is awesome! I’ve tried several homemade and storebought natural deodorants, and I just didn’t like them as much as conventional deodorant. I do hate the thought of what I’m putting on my body, and I would really love something that works. Homemade? Even better! I’ve been wanting a reason to get some essential oils anyway. Can’t wait to try this one-thanks for sharing! <3
What is the purpose of the glycerin?
Magnesium oil can tingle or sting a little when first applied, so I added the glycerin to soothe and reduce that sensation. 🙂
I wonder if aloe juice would help instead? Also I have magnesium flakes… Can I just make the oil from that?
Have you tried an oil such as jojoba or coconut instead of the glycerin?
I’ve been using the same Mag oil straight up out of a spray bottle before I apply another store bought non alum type. And you are right! It stings alright. I was trying different ways to use the oil as it is a newer item in my supplement kit. It’s kind of uncomfortable after I spray and even after I rub it in and mix with the other roll on type I have. Thanks for the idea of cornstarch. I was thinking instead of a corn product (that I don’t know if its GMO or not), I will try baking soda! Thats one of my all purpose cleaners etc. Love baking soda for its versatility. But Heather, maybe I am just using too much at one time. I spray 2 times. Perhaps I will go back down to 1. Do you think I will build up a tolerance as you say, in my system just by using in my pits daily?
I will have to try this! Postpartum stink is getting the best of my other deo.
Can I leave the out glycerin if I don’t have it?
Yes, you can. 🙂
Is there a difference in milk of magnesia and magnesium oil? Does it matter which ones I use?
I’m worried the glycerin will give me sticky pits! I’m going to try hald a recipe anyway, though, and find out! Getting magnesium can’t hurt, right? If I get sticky, I can leave it out next time. Thanks for all the great posts!
Half a recipe, I !rant to type!
I’ve been using homemade deodorant for several years and I just want to add that my favorite EO combo for my deodorant is Lemon and Lime. It makes a nice fresh clean scent that is not overpowering. Also, Lemon EO is a natural antibacterial.
I currently make a baking soda based deodorant that I’ve been using for over 2 years. I do seem to get a rash some days if I’ve shaved under my arms. The next batch I make I am going to try just arrowroot and cornstarch, but I’m skeptical because I’ve stuck to the same recipe for so long. I can sweat quite a bit sometimes, though, so that’s why I tolerate the rash.
My question is, when you do add the cornstarch or arrowroot to this recipe, and the mixture turns to gel.. does that effect the shelf life or anything else notable? I keep my deodorant in tubs and apply with my fingers, so the gel wouldn’t bother me.
Yes, the starch might reduce the shelf life but I am not sure by how much. I am not sure that the desired effect of the starch (to absorb moisture) would be present once it has gelled. I’m inclined to think it probably wouldn’t.
Just curious if you have considered a spray deoderant using magnesium sulfate, (better known as Epsom salts)? I prefer a spray, and currently use what I call ‘body spray’, which is an essential oil mixture diluted with a tiny bit of alcohol, in water. Being able to substitue something for the alcohol would be wonderful.
Try witch hazel, vodka (skyy is non gmo) or even vinegar in place of alcohol.
Can the addition of magnesium oil or milk of magnesia be used in a solid based deodorant recipe in place of baking soda to help neutralize underarm odor?
Solid deodorants are usually made with butters and waxes like beeswax. Although magnesium oil feels oily, it’s actually a water-based liquid. Since oil and water separate, it’s unfortunately very difficult to use them in the same formula. It’s possible with emulsions such as lotions, but not with solids to my knowledge. I have used powdered magnesium in solid deodorant, though: https://mommypotamus.com/how-to-make-deodorant/
Thank you!
Hi mom…i like to try ur deodorant recipe.But,i have one questions..if i use essential oil to this recipe it means i was dilute the essential oil first with carrier oil?
If yes…may u give me option which one the best carrier oil i have to use?
Thanks
I’m reading a lot of comments about using essential oils in the deodorant. People must understand that essential oils are POWERFUL! Citrus oils are the safest but I would really recommend that if you use essential oils you make one batch of deodorant and then divide it into smaller amounts. Rotate your essential oils so you are not using the same oil for an extended amount of time.
I have the Vetiver at home that is recommended here by Plant Therapy and it smells AWFUL! I can’t imagine putting it on my body. You may want to go smell it at the store before purchasing it if you’ve never used it before. I use plain old store brand Milk of Magnesia straight from the bottle and it works great!
Can this be used in a spray bottle? I plan on using the Milk of Magnsesium you linked too. Thanks
Is there any reason I would not be able to make this using powder Magnesium and purified water?
Hi Can I use magnesium oil and witch hazel along with the essential oils?
I use Milk of Magnesia, Tea Tree and an essential oil, usually Lavender
Wondering if you or anyone reading this has come across this problem– I’ve been wearing only natural deodorant for a couple years now (since my first pregnancy) and after a short transition, had great success for over a year with the sensitive skin solid formula from this website and a spray from vodka, ACV and EOs. Now I am pregnant again, and since mid-spring (which cooincides with second trimester) I smell badly of hotdogs as soon as I start sweating, no matter which blend I use or if I just showered. I supplement with magnesium oil spray, and am doing my best to eat the WPF way, although it will take us many more baby steps to really be eating what I now know is healthfully. I am hoping that maybe it is just my body using the now-clear detox pathway to do some house cleaning, but I am concerned that it may instead be an indicator of deeper health problems. Basic google searches are only bringing up conventional articles slamming natural deoderant as ineffective. Does anyone in this wholistic community have ideas or has already seen research relevant to what might be going on? Meanwhile, I’m going to try this recipe and see if a more direct dose of magnesium may be the answer! Thanks in advance for any tips!
My friend makes a wonderful magnesium-based, essential oils laced deodorant, but I ran out and couldn’t obtain more. Then I learned of MOM for deodorant and have been using it ever since. Straight MOM works but It can be diluted substantially and still be effective. I’m quite active and used rubbing alcohol (isopropyl 91%) for years as deodorant (no shaving I”m a guy), but much prefer the magnesium type deodorants as they last far longer than alcohol. Alcohol-splashed underarms are only good for half a day at high-output levels, or warm conditions, and alcohol is never suitable for the shaven pits.
Thanks for the rest of the information. My next trick is to use the MOM base and add essential oils to suit my notions of good scents and pleasantry.
You didn’t say how much arrow root powder.
It’s not a part of the main recipe, it’s just an optional step where you dust the area after deodorant application. The amount you use will be based on preference.
Hey! Is there any available MOM you can get preservative free? The one you linked has been out for months and I can find no replacements.
Sorry, I am not aware of one.
I finally tried this recipe, & it is fantastic. I can always use more magnesium in my body! I have always had to use the “prescription strength” deodorant in the past, & this recipe keeps me sweet smelling for about 24 hours! I have tried so many commercial brands that don’t contain aluminum, & this recipe is the only one that works for more than a few hours! Simply awesomeness!
This recipe is amazing! I am one who had to use the extra strength deodorants. I also have thyroid issues, & wanted something safer. I like the fact I am getting extra magnesium since what I have read online, most people are deficient in that area. So simple to make too! Good job! This will be my deodorant as long as it works. It has been many months, & I am amazed at how good it works! Good job! Thank you!
The milk of magnesia without additives hasn’t been available since pre-covid. They must have gone out of business. Do you know of a new source for this ingredient?
I don’t, sorry!