What Is Ammonium alum?

Learn about the antiperspirant and astringent characteristics of Ammonium alum and its usage in personal care products.

What Is Ammonium alum? Brandon Jones / IngredientReviewer

Last Updated: October 2, 2024

Written by Brandon Jones

What Is Ammonium alum?

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Aluminum ammonium sulfate is a substance that can be used in cosmetics to help prevent sweating and make skin appear tighter. It comes in the form of a white or colorless solid with no smell, and dissolves easily in water. This substance is made up of aluminum and ammonium sulfates.

What is the purpose of Ammonium alum in personal care products? It is used for its antiperspirant and astringent characteristics. Ammonium alum reduces sweating and perspiration and tightens the skin.

Names and identifiers that we found for this substance include: Ammonium Alum, Ammonium aluminum sulfate, Ammonium aluminum sulfate (NH4Al(SO4)2), Aluminium ammonium sulfate (1/1/2), and "Sulfuric acid, aluminum ammonium salt (2:1:1)".

What Are Antiperspirant Ingredients?

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Ammonium alum has antiperspirant characteristics.

Antiperspirant ingredients are used in cosmetic products that help control sweat production by blocking the sweat glands in your skin. These products contain certain active ingredients that reduce the amount of sweat your body produces.

Antiperspirant ingredients are usually aluminum-based compounds such as aluminum chloride, aluminum chlorohydrate, or aluminum zirconium, which work by forming a temporary plug in the sweat gland to reduce the amount of sweat released. They are considered to be the most effective ingredient for reducing underarm sweat.

What Are Astringent Ingredients?

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Ammonium alum has astringent characteristics.

Astringent ingredients in cosmetic products shrink or tighten the skin and reduce oiliness. This results in a temporary reduction in the appearance of pores and an overall smoother, firmer skin texture. Astringents can also help to remove excess dirt and oil from the skin, making it feel clean and refreshed. They are commonly found in toners, cleansers, and other skincare products targeted toward oily or acne-prone skin.

Types of Astringent Ingredients

Here are some of the most common types of astringent ingredients in cosmetics:

  • Tannins: These are plant-based compounds that have astringent properties. They are found in various natural ingredients like witch hazel, oak bark, and tea leaves.

  • Alcohols: Certain types of alcohol, like ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, and denatured alcohol, are commonly used in cosmetics as astringents. These alcohols can dissolve oil and reduce the appearance of pores.

  • Essential oils: Certain essential oils like lemon, lime, and grapefruit are known for their astringent properties. These oils help to tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of pores.

  • Clay: Certain types of clay, like kaolin and bentonite, have astringent properties. These clays help to absorb excess oil and impurities from your skin.

Safety

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Remember, always read and follow the instructions provided on product labels carefully. If you have any questions or concerns about using a product containing various ingredients, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before use.