Aluminum in cosmetics: Is it really that bad?

Aluminum in cosmetics plays a prominent role, especially in products like deodorants. This element is omnipresent in our daily life, from skincare to the aluminum foil in which we package food for, for example, your lunch or barbecue. But what exactly is the function of aluminum compounds in cosmetic products? Why are they used and what are the potential benefits and drawbacks of their use? Is it harmful to use aluminum? In this article, we explore these questions, including the presence of naturally occurring aluminum in our food.

What are the functions of aluminum in cosmetics?

Aluminum compounds are often used in various cosmetic products due to their unique properties. In deodorants and antiperspirants, for example, they help reduce sweat and control odors. Here are some of the most common aluminum compounds and their functions:

Aluminum Chloride:

Function: Aluminum chloride is effective in reducing sweating. It works by temporarily blocking the sweat glands in the skin, thereby reducing the amount of sweat that reaches the skin surface.

Usage: This ingredient is primarily used in antiperspirants. Due to its ability to minimize sweat production, it helps users to stay dry and comfortable, especially in situations where excessive sweating can be experienced as bothersome or uncomfortable.

Aluminum Chlorohydrate:

Function: Aluminum chlorohydrate is an ingredient that serves as a milder alternative to aluminum chloride. It has the same function of reducing sweating by temporarily blocking the sweat glands, but it is gentler and causes less irritation to the skin.

Use: This component is widely used in both antiperspirants and deodorants. It is popular for its effectiveness in controlling sweat and odor, while still being gentle enough for daily use, even on sensitive skin types.

Aluminum Sulfate:

Function: Aluminum sulfate is used as an astringent, which means it can temporarily cause the skin to contract or stiffen. This results in narrowed pores and reduced sweat production, which is particularly desired in products that keep the skin refreshed and dry.

Application: This ingredient can be found in certain deodorants and aftershaves. It is valued for its ability to tighten the skin and reduce perspiration, making it an essential component for products aimed at personal hygiene and comfort after shaving.

Aluminum Stearate:

Function: Aluminium stearate serves as a thickening agent and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations. This substance helps in improving the consistency and lifespan of products, making them easier to apply and longer-lasting.

Application: You can find aluminum stearate in a variety of products, such as creams, makeup, and other cosmetics. Due to its multifunctional properties, it is a popular choice for thickening and stabilizing cosmetic formulations, contributing to a more pleasant user experience.

Aluminium in Sunscreen

Function: By combining aluminum and titanium dioxide in sun filters, these provide a broader protection spectrum against harmful UV rays. This combination not only results in better protection but also in an improved texture of the product, making it more pleasant for daily use. Improved Stability: Aluminum plays a crucial role in increasing the stability of titanium dioxide within the formula. This ensures that the sun filter retains its protective functions more effectively and for a longer period, keeping your skin protected from sunlight for longer.

Application: These ingredients are a common choice in the composition of sunscreens and cosmetic products such as makeup. Their ability to effectively block UV radiation makes them essential for products intended to protect the skin from the sun and prevent early signs of skin aging.

Is aluminum harmful?

Although there are concerns about the safety of aluminum, extensive scientific studies have not yet established a definitive link between aluminum in cosmetics and serious health problems such as breast cancer or Alzheimer’s. Aluminum can be absorbed through the skin, but the amount that actually penetrates the skin is very small. Studies show that 0.012% of the applied aluminum reaches the bloodstream. Nevertheless, due to ongoing concern, some consumers choose aluminum-free alternatives.

Regulation and Safety

Regulatory bodies worldwide, including the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Commission, have approved aluminium compounds for use in cosmetics, deodorants and other skin products, as long as these fall within safety standards. In the EU, for example, the use of aluminium in antiperspirants is limited to a concentration of 0.6% for aerosol sprays and 2.5% for other formats, based on recent safety assessments that demonstrate a minimal health risk for consumers.

This regulation and the low penetration of aluminum through the skin indicate that, when used within the established limits, the risks of aluminum in cosmetics are minimal. However, consumers are free to choose products that suit their personal health preferences and needs.

Aluminum in Cosmetics versus Food

Aluminum naturally occurs in the environment, and this element is therefore present in various foods we consume daily. Interestingly, the amount of aluminum we get through food is significantly higher than the amount that our skin absorbs when using cosmetic products. The average adult consumes daily between 1 and 10 mg of aluminum via food and drinking water. This is in stark contrast to the minuscule amount of 0.01% aluminum that is actually absorbed by the skin when using cosmetic products that contain this metal.

Aluminum can be found in a wide range of foods, both due to natural presence and addition during processing processes. Many processed foods contain higher levels of aluminum due to added ingredients such as baking powders, colorings, and preservatives. Certain teas and herbs naturally contain aluminum, and even our drinking water can contain aluminum, depending on the purification processes and the water source.

The specific amount of aluminum that is absorbed through the diet varies greatly depending on one’s diet and dietary choices. However, it is estimated that only a small percentage (about 0.1% to 0.4%) of the ingested aluminum is actually absorbed by the body, with the remainder being excreted through the kidneys.

In other words

Aluminum compounds play an important role in cosmetics due to their effective antiperspirant, stabilizing, and photostabilizing properties. Although there is concern about possible health effects, regulatory authorities consider aluminum compounds safe within established limits. It is always important to choose products that suit your skin type and take into account any sensitivities.

Did you know?

At Iconic Elements Skincare, we focus on natural components and ecologically responsible production methods. Our formulas do not contain parabens, lanolin, silicones, sulfates, or BPA, which could potentially cause irritation or burden the environment. Instead, we opt for natural and organic ingredients, rich in nutrients and antioxidants such as argan oil, jojoba oil, shea butter, and aloe vera.

Did you know that our products are also free from microplastics? At Iconic Elements, we strive to use only natural ingredients, which are safe for both your skin and the environment.

High-quality creams from Iconic Elements
Our commitment to quality and sustainability has been awarded with two prestigious prizes. We won the award for Best Holistic Skin Care in 2022, and in 2016 we received the Beauty Award for our Spot Reducer.

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