Why Potassium Alum is Your Armpit’s Best Pal

Aluminium is the third most abundant element on the planet. We consume it in our food, our water and through products such as deodorants. Most traditional antiperspirants contain Aluminium Chloride or Aluminium Chlorohydrate, ingredients which react with amino acids and peptides in the skin, forming a layer which blocks the sweat glands in your underarms. These pore-clogging ingredients prevent perspiration, which can hinder the natural elimination of toxins.

Why is Potassium Alum different?

Potassium Alum is a natural mineral salt used as an alternative to Aluminium Chloride and Chlorohydrate and is the sole ingredient of our Crystal Classic Deodorant. Its antimicrobial properties have been celebrated in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years, used as a topical astringent, an antiseptic for wounds, acne and tonsillitis and a toner to tighten the pores. Potassium Alum (also known more commonly as ‘alum’ or ‘ming fan’ in Chinese medicine) was also taken as a decoction dissolved in water to alleviate stomach problems or in its powder form to remedy bleeding gums and mouth ulcers.

Potassium Alum is comprised of large molecules that sit on the surface of the skin, creating a barrier. Its alternative, Aluminium Chloride, is comprised of much smaller molecules than Potassium Alum, meaning that it is absorbed by the skin and plugs the sweat glands, preventing the release of unwanted chemicals in the body.