Home Cosmetic Science Talk Formulating Want to exchange between Mg(OH)₂ and TEC in deodorant

Tagged: 

  • Want to exchange between Mg(OH)₂ and TEC in deodorant

    Posted by Charlie on April 23, 2025 at 10:26 am

    Hi everyone,

    Like many of you on this forum, I’m developing a deodorant and have read numerous discussions here. Below is a summary of what I’ve learned so far.

    First, I’m working on an anhydrous stick deodorant; later I’ll develop a cream version (I haven’t yet decided if it will be anhydrous or water-based). All formulations will be aluminum-free and natural.

    From what I understand, there are two main approaches:

    1. High pH activity – Mg(OH)₂ + Zinc ricinoleate

    The deodorant neutralizes body odours by raising the pH. It’s an alternative to baking soda, but can still irritate sensitive skin due to its high pH.

    2. Low pH activity – Triethyl citrate (TEC)

    It inhibits odor in an acidic way, rather than alkaline. These two mechanisms can’t be combined effectively.

    A few years ago, most indie brands favoured TEC, but more recently I’ve seen new and best-selling products using baking soda or Mg(OH)₂, and some even combine both strategies (TEC + baking soda). Major brands have also released various versions over time.

    In conclusion, I’d love to hear your thoughts: which approach do you prefer high pH or low pH activity and what pH level do you target when the deodorant contacts sweat?

    Thank you!

    Charlie replied 5 hours, 5 minutes ago 1 Member · 0 Replies
  • 0 Replies

Sorry, there were no replies found.

Log in to reply.

Chemists Corner