Skin Irritations Caused by Aluminum Deodorants
Deodorants and antiperspirants are comprised of many chemicals and ingredients. Various forms of aluminum, regulated by the FDA, are a main ingredient in most antiperspirants.
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History of Deodorants
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Americans have been masking body odor and underarm wetness for centuries. The first antiperspirant with aluminum chloride, called Everdry, was invented prior to 1900.
Function of Aluminum
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Aluminum combines with sweat to form plugs that block perspiration at least 20 percent. Salts in the antiperspirant work as an astringent and tighten the pores, also reducing sweat production.
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Features of a Skin Irritation
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The astringent qualities can cause redness, bumps, itching and irritation to sensitive underarm skin. According to the Mayo Clinic, contact dermatitis is caused by allergens and irritants found in deodorants and antiperspirants.
Expert Insight
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Leslie Baumann, M.D., a Yahoo! Health Expert for Skin Conditions, helps to clarify the facts in an article entitled "Deodorant and Anti-Perspirant Ingredients." (See Resources.) She says, "A deodorant and an antiperspirant are not the same thing, but they are often found together in products geared for underarm use. A deodorant gets rid of smell and often contains fragrance, while an antiperspirant decreases sweat." Aluminum compounds are found in antiperspirants.
Misconceptions
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All skin irritations occurring under the arms are not caused by aluminum. Vitamin E, natural ingredients, and other chemicals and fragrances found in deodorants and antiperspirants are frequent irritants and allergens as well.
Prevention
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Baumann recommends avoiding aluminum in deodorants if possible because some studies suggest long-term harm can be caused by their use--harm greater than irritation and contact dermatitis.
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