Aluminium-based ingredients are the key active ingredients in most antiperspirants. They work by dissolving in sweat and forming a temporary, invisible gel layer over the sweat glands, which reduces how much sweat reaches the surface of the skin. Even “natural” deodorants often contain alum, a naturally occurring aluminium salt, that functions in a similar way.
Aluminium is the third most abundant element in the Earth’s crust. We encounter it daily through food, water, pharmaceuticals, and a wide range of consumer products.
Is aluminium in antiperspirants safe?
Yes. Extensive scientific evaluations have confirmed the safety of aluminium in cosmetic products. Most recently, in 2024, the European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) reviewed all available data and concluded that aluminium is safe to use in cosmetics, including antiperspirants and deodorants. Importantly, another recent assessment in 2023 also considered how much aluminium we’re exposed to from other sources, like food and pharmaceuticals.
Does aluminium cause breast cancer?
This claim stems from concerns that aluminium salts might be absorbed through the skin, particularly near the breast area. Studies have shown that only tiny amounts of aluminium may penetrate the skin - and these are far smaller than what we consume daily through food and drink.
Cancer charities, including Cancer Research UK and Breakthrough Breast Cancer, have found no evidence linking aluminium in antiperspirants to breast cancer. There is no plausible biological mechanism to support such a link, and spreading misinformation can distract from addressing known risk factors like smoking, diet, and genetics. The SCCS scientific evaluations have also thoroughly investigated any potential cancer risk and concluded that there is no concern.
Does aluminium mimic oestrogen?
Some studies suggest that aluminium may weakly mimic the hormone oestrogen under specific laboratory conditions. However, these conditions don’t reflect real-life use. Many substances found in food can mimic hormones in lab tests, but this does not mean they pose a health risk.
The trace levels of aluminium from antiperspirants are too low to produce any measurable hormonal effect, and the evidence does not show that this has any impact on human health.
Is there a link between aluminium and Alzheimer’s disease?
The suggestion that aluminium exposure may contribute to Alzheimer’s disease has been studied for over 40 years. So far, no causal link has been proven.
The World Health Organization and the Alzheimer’s Society both state that aluminium is not considered a primary cause of Alzheimer’s. In fact, people working in aluminium-related industries, who are exposed to much higher levels than the general public, show no increased risk of developing the disease.
The bottom line
Aluminium in antiperspirants has been rigorously studied and assessed by independent scientists and health authorities. It is safe for use, does not cause cancer, and has no proven link to Alzheimer’s. You can continue using these products with confidence, knowing that they are regulated, tested, and backed by robust science.
