What it is
A polymeric aluminium salt, a white crystalline powder.
What it does
Antiperspirant active that plugs sweat ducts and is an astringent.
Why it’s a concern
Aluminium salts interact with estrogen receptors in vitro and have been detected in breast tissue (Darbre et al. 2013, J Inorganic Biochemistry). The French agency ANSES recommends limiting aluminium exposure from cosmetics on damaged skin. Concerns about Alzheimer’s disease association remain debated and unresolved.
Also known as
aluminium chlorohydrateACH
CAS numbers
12042-91-0
Commonly found in
antiperspirant
Safer alternatives
- baking soda deodorants
- magnesium hydroxide deodorants
- aluminium-free natural deodorants
Related chemical families
Sources
- Darbre et al. 2013, JIB
- ANSES Opinion on Aluminium 2011