How to Make Natural DIY Body Powder at Home

Need a last-minute holiday or birthday gift?

Make the best DIY Body Powder with items you likely already have at home. This talc-free blend uses pantry staples like cornstarch or arrowroot combined with baking soda for absorbency and gentle odor control.

You can leave the powder unscented, add a few drops of essential oil, or use a small amount of vanilla or peppermint extract for a pleasant aroma.

Never be caught without a gift again!

I keep a small shelf for thoughtful items to give as presents, but it’s easy to run low. Rather than scrambling to shop at the last minute, I make a few handmade gifts ahead of time.

A simple, homemade body powder is a quick, thoughtful present that most people appreciate. It takes only minutes to prepare and the main ingredients are likely in your pantry.

What is the purpose of body powder?

Body powder helps keep skin dry by absorbing excess moisture, which reduces friction and can help prevent rashes in both adults and babies. It’s especially useful on humid days or in areas prone to chafing, like inner thighs.

If I don’t have body powder available, what can I use?

This recipe is the perfect solution. Use cornstarch, arrowroot, or tapioca starch as the base and add baking soda for odor control. If you want to scent the powder, a few drops of peppermint or another essential oil will do the trick.

Plain cornstarch or arrowroot works fine on its own in a pinch, but adding baking soda and a light scent makes it more gift-worthy.

Can I use baking soda as a body powder?

Baking soda can deodorize and absorb odors, so it’s often used in homemade body powders. It can be a useful component, but on its own it feels less silky than starches like cornstarch or arrowroot. Use baking soda mixed with a starch for the best texture and performance.

What ingredients do I need to make this homemade body powder?

Gather simple ingredients you probably have in your kitchen:

• Cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or tapioca starch (base)
• Baking soda (for deodorizing)
• Essential oils or a small amount of baking extract (optional, for scent)

Use alternatives if you have allergies—for example, replace cornstarch with arrowroot or tapioca starch if you prefer. Always check for sensitivities before using scented oils on babies or those with sensitive skin.

What is arrowroot powder?

Arrowroot powder is a fine, starchy flour used as a thickening agent in cooking and baking. It creates a silky texture, making it an excellent option for a smooth-feeling body powder.

Natural body powder recipe

• Cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or tapioca starch
• Baking soda
• Essential oils (optional)

How do you make DIY baby powder with essential oils?

This is a very simple mix. Start with a silky base and add deodorizing power and scent:

1. Measure 2 cups of cornstarch or arrowroot powder into a bowl for a smooth, soft base.
2. Add 1/2 cup baking soda to help control odor.
3. If you want a scented powder, add essential oils a few drops at a time until you reach the desired strength. Mint and eucalyptus make a refreshing unisex blend.
4. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined, then transfer the powder into jars for storage or gifting.

After mixing, funnel the powder into clean jars with shaker lids or corks for easy use.

What should I use for jars?

Glass spice jars with shaker lids work great and often include funnels to make filling easier. Thrift store salt shakers or small glass bottles also make charming, inexpensive containers that already have holes for sprinkling.

How can I decorate DIY Body Powder for gifts?

Dress up your jars with ribbons, stickers, or custom labels. Place small jars in gift boxes with a handwritten note or a short, heartfelt message. Simple presentation makes a homemade gift feel special.

Other DIY gift ideas you can find in your kitchen

You can adapt this powder for several uses. Add tea tree oil for a foot-care powder that helps with odor and mild fungal issues. Use the blend as a dry shampoo for light hair; for dark hair, mix half arrowroot and half cocoa powder to avoid visible residue.

Note: I don’t recommend using this powder as a facial cosmetic. While it can absorb oil, the color and some essential oils may be too harsh or noticeable on facial skin.

Last-Minute Holiday Gift: DIY Body Powder

Yield:
3 ½ cups

Prep Time:
5 minutes

Total Time:
5 minutes

Look no further than your pantry to make the easiest present ever — body powder. Add essential oils or extracts to customize the scent.

Perfect for holidays, birthdays, and new moms when made unscented for babies.

Ingredients

• 3 cups arrowroot or cornstarch
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
• 3/4 teaspoon eucalyptus essential oil or another essential oil (optional)

Instructions

1. Mix the starch and baking soda thoroughly.
2. Add essential oils or extracts a few drops at a time until you reach the scent strength you prefer.
3. Transfer the blend into clean jars for storage or gifting.

Nutrition Information

Yield 10
Serving Size 1

Amount Per Serving
Calories 89

Nutrition information is an estimate. If you have health concerns, consult your preferred nutrition calculator or professional.

Did you make this recipe?

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