There is a lot of discussion around the risk (or not) of aluminium and other heavy metals in modern consumer products - from food to cosmetics to medicines etc.
In this blog we are going to take a closer look at aluminium in deodorant or anti-perspirant.
Before we get into the detail, we need to clarify the difference between deodorant, and anti-perspirant (and yes, there is a big difference).
What is the difference between deodorant and anti-perspirant?
An anti-perspirant as the name suggests, stops you from perspiring (sweating). How is this achieved? Aluminium salts are used in the product to make you sweat less by blocking the sweat glands under your arm.
A deodorant deodorises your armpit. In other words, it is used to reduce odour associated with sweating. Deodorants do not stop you from sweating. And most importantly deodorants do not contain aluminium.
Is aluminium a health risk?
While aluminium-based compounds are generally recognised as safe by health authorities when used in cosmetics and personal care products, there have been concerns and debates about the potential risks associated with long-term exposure to aluminium in anti-perspirants.
aluminium absorption and neurological concerns
There is some evidence to suggest that a small amount of aluminium from anti-perspirants can be absorbed through the skin. Studies have explored the potential link between aluminium exposure and neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease.
what are the studies saying?
Recent studies conducted by the School of Public Health, Shandong University and the University of Tennessee Health Science Center suggests that chronic aluminium exposure is associated with increased risk of Alzheimer's Disease, and that circulatory levels of aluminium, mercury, and cadmium are significantly higher in Alzheimer's Disease patients.
Key Takeaway
It is important to approach these concerns with a balanced perspective. There are many other sources of aluminium and heavy metals from our environment. They are also found in food, medicines, and other cosmetics.
The concentration of aluminium in anti-perspirants is regulated, and products on the market are required to adhere to safety guidelines set by health authorities.
To identify if your anti-perspirant or other personal care product contains aluminium, look for these words on the ingredients list:
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aluminium salts
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aluminium compounds
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aluminium chlorohydrate
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aluminium zirconium tetrachlorohydrexgly
And while you are looking at the ingredients list, you will most likely see a KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN warning. Many anti-perspirants & deodorants contain harmful aerosols and other ingredients that require the manufacturer to issue this warning on their label!
However, like many things, people are now making a greater consumer conscious decision to seek out skincare and personal care products free from aluminium, heavy metals and other chemical laden toxic ingredients.
Most recently New Zealand announced a full ban on the use of 'forever chemicals' in cosmetics from 2026. This is a range of ~14,000 different chemicals that are added to cosmetics to smooth the skin, or to make cosmetic products more durable, spreadable and water resistant.
Aluminium Free Deodorant
All handmaid deodorants are 100% natural and aluminium free. Available in three scents, our deodorants have received 5 star review's from satisfied customers.
"A fresh smelling deodorant with a solid lifespan! Its natural ingredients mean I don't get the skin irritation that occurs with some known brand deodorants. I applied it before a workout and even through a sweaty session it managed to keep body odour at bay!"
"Can’t believe how great this deodorant really is. I used to buy an aluminium free from the supermarket but had to reapply a few times during the day and never quite felt fresh. Now, I apply after my shower in the morning and am fresh for the rest of the day. No need to reapply."