What Are Antiperspirants in Cosmetics?

Antiperspirants are cosmetic products designed to reduce sweat production by acting directly on sweat glands. Unlike deodorants, which only control odor, these actives limit perspiration.

In cosmetic formulation, they are essential in products such as:
  • Roll-ons
  • Sticks
  • Sprays
  • Cream deodorants
For formulators, selecting the right ingredient is critical in terms of efficacy, sensory profile, and stability.

Aluminum Chlorohydrate: The benchmark antiperspirant active

¿What is Aluminum Chlorohydrate?

Aluminum Chlorohydrate (ACH) is the most widely used antiperspirant active in cosmetics. It works by forming a temporary gel plug in the sweat ducts, reducing sweat release.

Key benefits in formulation

  • High antiperspirant efficacy
  • Excellent cost-performance ratio
  • Compatible with multiple systems (emulsions, solutions, sticks)
  • Widely regulated and globally accepted
​Available formats
Aluminum Chlorohydrate is available in several formats to suit formulation needs:
  • Liquid: Ideal for roll-ons and aqueous solutions. Easy to incorporate.
  • Powder: Suitable for sticks and anhydrous systems.
  • Flakes: Intermediate format for easier handling and controlled dissollution.

Technical considerations

  • Optimal formulation pH: acidic (≈ 3.5 – 5)
  • May impact viscosity in aqueous systems
  • Potential interactions with thickeners and fragances

Market trends: Aluminum-free alternatives

The cosmetics market is shifting towards more natural solutions, driving demand for  aluminum-free deodorant actives.

Magnesium-based mineral active (Dead Sea)

An innovative alternative is the use of magnesium-rich minerals derived from Dead Sea salts.

Key benefits

  • Aluminum-free
  • Natural origin
  • Helps reduce body odor without blocking sweat
  • Suitable for clean beauty formulations

Mechanism of action

These actives work by:
  • Neutralizing odor-causing bacteria
  • Preserving the skin's natural balance
  • Allowing the natural sweating process

Antiperspirant vs deodorant: Key differences

Antiperspirant vs deodorant
Feature Antiperspirant Deodorant
Function Reduces sweat Controls odor
Main active Aluminum salts Antibacterial actives
Example Aluminum Chlorohydrate Magnesium minerals
Trend High efficacy Natural / aluminum-free

Applications in cosmetic formulation

Antiperspirant and deodorant actives are used in:
  • Roll-on O/W emulsions
  • Anhydrous sticks (waxes + emollients)
  • Hidroalcoholic sprays
  • Natural deodorant creams
The choice of active depends on:
  • Product positioning (efficacy vs natural)
  • Target skin type
  • Marketing claims (aluminum-free, natural, dermatologically tested)

How to choose the right raw material

For formulators, selection should be based on:

Technical criteria

  • Required efficacy
  • Type of formulation
  • Compatibility with other ingredients
  • System stability

Market criteria

  • Clean beauty trends
  • Regulatory framework
  • Consumer preferences

Conclusion

Antiperspirants remain essential in cosmetics, with Aluminum Chlorohydrate as the leading active due to its proven efficacy. However, the rise of alternatives such as Dead Sea magnesium minerals reflects a strong shift toward natural and aluminum-free solutions.

For laboratories, the key challenge is balancing:
  • Technical efficacy
  • Sensory expierence
  • Market trends