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Tallow Deodorant Recipe

This homemade tallow deodorant recipe is made with nourishing grass-fed tallow, coconut oil, beeswax, and arrowroot powder to create a smooth, creamy natural deodorant that helps absorb moisture and control odor. It's easy to make with just a handful of simple ingredients and can be customized with your favorite essential oils. Includes a baking soda-free option using kaolin clay for sensitive skin.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Course Natural Home DIY

Equipment

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Add the grass-fed tallow, coconut oil, and beeswax to a double boiler or heat-safe glass measuring cup set over a saucepan that has a few inches of gently simmering water. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until all the ingredients are completely melted and combined.
  • Remove from the heat and let the melted mixture cool for a minute or two. Then add the arrowroot powder and baking soda to the melted oils. Whisk or stir thoroughly until the powders are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth, with no visible lumps. For the baking soda-free version, substitute kaolin clay as directed in the recipe notes
  • Once the mixture has cooled further but is still liquid, add your chosen essential oils and stir well to distribute them evenly throughout the deodorant.
  • Right before transferring it to your glass jar give it one final good stir. Then Carefully pour or spoon the mixture into a clean, completely dry 4-ounce glass mason jar or deodorant tube, leaving a little room at the top. Use a spatula to scrape any remaining mixture from the measuring cup.
    I prefer to use the small glass mason jars instead of deodorant tubes since most tubes that actually work well are made of plastic and I don't want endocrine disruptors in my deodorant. ;)
  • Leave the jar uncovered at room temperature until the deodorant has completely cooled and firmed up, which may take several hours. Once fully set, secure the lid and store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Notes

  • Use high-quality, well-rendered tallow. Choose grass-fed tallow that has been thoroughly purified to remove impurities and minimize any beefy smell.
  • Adjust the consistency. For a firmer deodorant, increase the beeswax slightly. For a softer, creamier texture, reduce the beeswax or add a little more coconut oil.
  • Keep stirring as it cools. Arrowroot powder and baking soda can settle at the bottom while the mixture is still liquid. Stir periodically as it thickens to keep the ingredients evenly distributed.
  • Make it baking soda-free. For sensitive skin, omit the baking soda and substitute 1 tablespoon of kaolin clay. 
  • Store properly. Keep your homemade tallow deodorant in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Warm temperatures can soften the coconut oil and affect the consistency.
  • Avoid applying to irritated skin. Baking soda and essential oils can cause irritation, especially after shaving. Patch test before regular use and discontinue if irritation develops.
Keyword tallow deodorant recipe
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