Alum stone as deodorant: disadvantages nobody tells you about

Alum stone has gained fame as a "natural" alternative to commercial deodorants. Many people choose it for its crystalline appearance, affordable price, and supposed safety. But what few people know is that it also contains aluminum, and that completely changes the conversation.

Alum stone is mainly composed of potassium alum, an aluminum salt. Although it is not the same type of aluminum as aluminum chlorohydrate in antiperspirants, it is still a form absorbable by the skin, especially when applied after shaving or on damp skin.

Disadvantages of alum stone deodorant:

• Contains aluminum, even if sold as "aluminum-free"
  Many brands promote it as an aluminum-free deodorant, but that is false. Alum is aluminum. Using it means continuing to expose your skin and mammary glands to this metal, with the same risks that many consumers want to avoid.
• Acts as an antiperspirant
  Although some sell it as a deodorant, it also partially blocks sweat pores, interfering with a natural body process.
• Potential health risk
  Aluminum is a metalloestrogen, meaning it can mimic the effect of estrogens in the body. This has raised concern about its relationship with hormonal diseases and even breast cancer, especially due to the proximity of the armpits to breast tissue.
• May irritate the skin
  Although perceived as gentle, alum has an acidic pH and can cause dryness, itching, or sensitivity, especially on newly shaved skin or skin prone to irritation.
• Does not eliminate bad odor in cases of heavy sweating
  Its action is weak against odor-causing bacteria. In hot climates or for people with intense sweating, it is not effective throughout the day.
• Breaks easily and is not very practical
  Being a solid crystal, the stone can break if dropped, stain some surfaces, or even scratch the skin if not properly moistened.
• False sense of security due to being "natural"
  Not everything natural is safe. Just because it comes from the earth does not mean it is harmless. Arsenic is also natural, and no one wants it on their skin. Alum should be analyzed by its chemistry, not its origin.

At Maxalli, we prefer to completely avoid aluminum in all its forms. Our natural deodorants are formulated with botanical ingredients, antimicrobial essential oils, and natural waxes, such as candelilla wax, to protect you without altering your health or your skin.

Alum stone is not as natural or as safe as it seems.