The Food and Drug Administration
According to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), it is safe to use deodorants that contain aluminum sulfate. Other studies have indicated otherwise, but the results are not conclusive. This means people can use these deodorants and feel confident knowing they are deemed to be safe by the FDA. Aluminum sulfate can also be called cake alum and filter alum. Cake alum is often used in antiperspirants. Cake alum comes from three sulfate and two aluminum atoms. It is often a white crystalline solid at room temperatures.
Natural Deodorants Versus Mainstream
Ones
Most of the mainstream deodorants found
at pharmacies and mass merchants are made with aluminum sulfate,
especially the solid products. There are also deodorants that are
marketed as natural. Many consumers have discovered these natural
deodorants also contain ingredients that are derivatives of alum. As
a result, they might also have the same potential risks as deodorants
that contain aluminum sulfate. Plus, the ingredients in mainstream
deodorants have been FDA-approved to give consumers a feeling of
confidence about these products.
An Antiperspirant Versus Fragrance
There are other products that can be
used to mask underarm odors rather than eliminating them. Some of
them might be naturally-based but they will not minimize perspiration
or get rid of odors. Users may find the ultimate odor is even more
unpleasant than regular body odor. These products can be costly and
consumers are disappointed when they have an odd body scent or wet
underarms. Antiperspirants with aluminum sulfate usually work as
intended.
What Can People Do?
It makes sense for people to ask their
doctors whether it is safe to use regular deodorants and
antiperspirants. This way consumers can feel more comfortable about what they use. These products
also contain an array of other ingredients, depending on the brand
and formula. Users with sensitive skin should determine whether
another ingredient could be causing any potential irritation. For
some, it helps to use a basic, unscented product. Another option is
to use a deodorant every other day rather than every day. The key is
to find a product that works as intended and does not irritate your
skin.
Personal care products vary and come in
many formulations. It can take some shopping around to find the one
that is ideal for your needs. Consider talking to your doctor and
reading reviews to try to get a product that keeps you feeling dry
and confident throughout the day.