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- Baking-Soda-Free Deodorant – How to Build an Effective Formula
Baking-Soda-Free Deodorant – How to Build an Effective Formula
Modern deodorant actives for everyday freshness without blocking perspiration
A deodorant and an antiperspirant are not the same product.
An antiperspirant is designed to reduce perspiration, while a deodorant is primarily used to control unpleasant body odour.
Modern deodorant formulations can work through several complementary mechanisms rather than relying on fragrance alone.
Why formulate without baking soda?
Baking soda is common in homemade deodorants, but its high pH can feel uncomfortable for some users and may cause stinging or redness, particularly after shaving.
Several alternatives are available.
Magnesium hydroxide
Magnesium hydroxide is a fine mineral powder widely used in deodorants as a gentler alternative to baking soda.
It does not stop perspiration and is incorporated into anhydrous products as a fine dispersion.
Triethyl citrate
Triethyl citrate is a useful deodorant active that works well in combination with other odour-control ingredients.
Zinc ricinoleate
Zinc ricinoleate helps bind odour-associated molecules rather than simply masking them with fragrance.
Decalact Deo
Decalact Deo is a ready-made deodorant active blend used at a relatively low level in finished formulations.
Fresh Shield – Baking-Soda-Free Deodorant Stick
Mineral deodorant with magnesium hydroxide, triethyl citrate and zinc ricinoleate
Ingredients for 100 g
- 29.5 g fractionated coconut oil – 29.5%
- 20 g shea butter – 20%
- 10 g cocoa butter – 10%
- 12 g candelilla wax – 12%
- 15 g magnesium hydroxide – 15%
- 7 g white kaolin clay – 7%
- 3 g triethyl citrate – 3%
- 2 g zinc ricinoleate – 2%
- 1 g Decalact Deo – 1%
- 0.5 g vitamin E – 0.5%
Total: 100 g
If desired, replace 0.3 g of the fractionated coconut oil with 0.3% suitable cosmetic fragrance. Always follow the IFRA documentation for the specific fragrance.
Method
- Sift the magnesium hydroxide and kaolin and combine them thoroughly.
- Place the fractionated coconut oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, candelilla wax and zinc ricinoleate in a heat-resistant container.
- Heat gently over a water bath until fully melted.
- Add the triethyl citrate and mix.
- Gradually incorporate the magnesium hydroxide and kaolin while stirring continuously.
- Keep stirring as the mixture begins to cool and slightly thicken.
- Below approximately 55–60°C, add Decalact Deo.
- Add vitamin E and optional fragrance.
- Pour immediately into a deodorant stick container.
- Allow to cool and set completely.
Because the formula contains no water, a conventional broad-spectrum preservative is not required.
Use
Apply a small amount to clean, dry underarm skin.
One or two light passes are generally sufficient.
After shaving, allow the skin to settle before applying.
This is a deodorant and not an antiperspirant.
Does deodorant need fragrance?
No.
The deodorant system does not depend on a strong perfume. An unscented version can be a good choice for minimalist routines or more sensitive skin.
Men’s or women’s deodorant?
The underlying formula does not need to be gender-specific.
Woody, citrus, herbal or fresh fragrance profiles can completely change the character of the product without changing its basic function.
