Cornstarch is a common ingredient made from the starchy portion of corn kernels known as the endosperm. It’s used as a thickening agent for gravies, marinades, sauces, soups, and casseroles.
Though most people think cornstarch is reserved for cooking, it’s quite useful outside the kitchen. Just keep in mind that many of these uses aren’t backed by scientific studies.
Here are 19 household uses for cornstarch.
Share on PinterestMichelle Arnold / EyeEm/Getty Images1. Skin relief
Cornstarch may be a convenient and cost-effective remedy for skin irritation, though little research supports its efficacy for this use. All the same, many people use it to soothe sunburns and reduce skin itchiness.
Mix cornstarch and a few drops of water in a bowl until it forms a paste the thickness of peanut butter. Apply a small layer to your skin and allow it to sit until it dries completely. Then, rinse it off with warm water.
Some people also sprinkle cornstarch on their sheets or the inside of clothing to reduce friction.
2. Deodorant
If you’re out of deodorant or want a DIY alternative, try cornstarch.
Thanks to its moisture-absorbing properties, it acts as a natural deodorant to decrease sweat and odor.
To make your own cornstarch deodorant, you’ll need:
- 3 tablespoons (45 mL) of coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons (16 grams) of cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons (28 grams) of baking soda
Microwave the coconut oil for 15–20 seconds or until it liquifies. Then, slowly add the cornstarch and baking soda until it forms a thick paste. You can also add a drop of your favorite essential oil to give it a pleasant smell.
Keep in mind that some people find baking soda irritates their underarms, so it may not be suitable for everyone. Furthermore, if you experience excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, you may need a stronger commercial antiperspirant.
3. Dry shampoo
You can use cornstarch as a natural dry shampoo.
Sprinkle a small amount onto the roots of your hair and gently brush it through to the ends. For easy application, use a clean makeup brush to transfer it to your roots.
Since cornstarch is light in color, this technique may not work for those with dark hair.
4. Matte nail polish
To create a matte nail polish, put a few drops of nail polish on a plate and sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch on top. Start slowly, adding more as needed.
Then mix it with a paintbrush and apply it to your nails.
5. Relaxing milk bath
Milk baths have historically been used to soothe skin while creating a luxurious bathing experience. Interestingly, one of the secret ingredients in many milk baths is cornstarch.
Though no research supports any benefits from taking milk baths with cornstarch, some people find that it works for them.
In a bag, add 1 cup (128 grams) of cornstarch, 2 cups (256 grams) of powdered whole milk, and 1/2 cup (115 grams) of baking soda. Seal and shake well. Finally, add a few drops of lavender essential oil — or another essential oil — for a relaxing aroma and shake again.
At bath time, add 1 cup (128 grams) of the mixture to your warm bath and enjoy.
6. Athlete’s foot preventative
Athlete’s foot occurs when your feet are regularly exposed to moisture, such as sweat, which allows fungi like Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, and Epidermophyton floccosum to grow (1).
Though cornstarch cannot treat or cure athlete’s foot, it may help prevent it. Simply sprinkle cornstarch in your shoes to reduce moisture or add it to your socks for additional moisture-wicking action.
If you regularly experience athlete’s foot, ask your healthcare provider for suitable treatments like topical antifungal medication (1).
7. Chafing solution
Cornstarch can help reduce friction between two surfaces. As a result, it may help reduce chafing.
Rub a small amount of cornstarch to the irritated area, such as between your thighs, before you get dressed.
8. Detangling agent for hair knots
If you have a large knot in your hair, try applying cornstarch to the area.
Cornstarch may reduce friction and lubricate hair fibers, which may make detangling knots easier.
9. Bug bite relief
Bug bites, which are itchy and irritating, become even worse when your skin is damp. Cornstarch may help dry the skin around a bug bite to keep it from itching.
Mix 2 tablespoons (16 grams) of cornstarch with a few drops of cold water until it creates a paste the thickness of peanut butter. Apply it to the bite and let it sit until dry.
10. Blister relief
Blisters worsen in moist environments or when rubbing against another surface, such as shoes or clothing.
Add a small amount of cornstarch to the blister to reduce friction and keep the area dry. However, don’t apply cornstarch to an open blister or wound, as this can lead to infection (2).
11–19. Other uses
When not to use it
Although some natural health websites claim that you can use cornstarch to treat cuts and wounds, it’s best to avoid applying it to any open area. That’s because it may act as a feeding ground for bacteria and infect the wound (2).
Furthermore, don’t apply cornstarch to your face as a natural makeup or oil remover. Though this is likely fine for most people, it may clog pores and lead to breakouts in those with acne-prone skin (3, 4).
The bottom line
Cornstarch is a versatile ingredient known for its thickening and moisture-wicking properties.
It has many household uses, such as soothing irritated skin, detangling knots, acting as a natural deodorant, and treating stains. Next time you run out of that necessary household item, give cornstarch a try.
Still, you shouldn’t apply cornstarch to open wounds or use it on your face.