What Is Aluminum Dichlorohydrex Pg?
Aluminum Dichlorohydrex Pg is a complex formed when aluminum chloride hydroxide is reacted with propylene glycol, also known as 1,2-propanediol. The resulting material combines the sweat-reducing power of aluminum salts with the skin-friendly feel of the glycol carrier. First explored in the 1960s as researchers looked for gentler yet effective antiperspirant options, it quickly found a place in personal care thanks to its good performance and lower chance of staining fabrics compared with earlier aluminum salts. Production starts with aluminum chloride that is partially neutralized to create aluminum chloride hydroxide, which is then blended with propylene glycol under controlled heat and pH until a uniform solution or slurry forms. The finished ingredient is typically supplied as a clear or slightly hazy liquid that dissolves easily in water or alcohol. You will most often see it in roll-on and stick deodorants, aerosol sprays, cream antiperspirants, foot sprays, post-shave lotions and some sports body powders where sweat and odor control are key.
Aluminum Dichlorohydrex Pg’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In topical products this ingredient brings several practical benefits
- Antiperspirant: Limits wetness by forming temporary plugs inside sweat ducts, which slows the flow of perspiration to the skin surface. Less sweat means greater comfort and fewer moisture stains on clothing
- Astringent: Tightens skin proteins on contact, giving a cleaner feel and helping reduce the look of enlarged pores. This mild tightening can also support the antiperspirant effect
- Deodorant: Reduces body odor by lowering the amount of sweat available for bacteria to break down and by creating an environment that is less friendly to odor-causing microbes
Who Can Use Aluminum Dichlorohydrex Pg
Most skin types can tolerate this ingredient well. It performs best for people with normal, oily or combination skin that struggles with excess sweat. Dry or very sensitive skin may feel a bit tight or experience mild stinging, especially if the formula also contains alcohol, so those users should start with lower-strength products. Individuals with eczema, psoriasis or open cuts should avoid applying it directly to affected areas because aluminum salts can aggravate already compromised skin.
Aluminum Dichlorohydrex Pg is made from mineral aluminum and synthetic propylene glycol so it contains no animal-derived components. That makes it suitable for vegans and vegetarians, though cruelty-free status still depends on the brand’s overall animal testing policy.
Current safety data show minimal skin absorption and no known risk to a developing fetus, so products with this ingredient are generally considered compatible with pregnancy and breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all personal care products with a qualified healthcare provider to be sure they meet individual needs.
The ingredient is not known to cause photosensitivity, meaning it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. People with severely impaired kidney function, however, are sometimes advised to limit exposure to aluminum compounds so they should check with their doctor before regular use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Aluminum Dichlorohydrex Pg vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects that could occur yet are unlikely for most users when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Skin irritation such as redness burning or itching
- Temporary stinging when applied to freshly shaved or broken skin
- Excessive dryness or a tight feeling in the application area
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to aluminum salts or propylene glycol
- Rare clogging of sweat ducts leading to small heat-rash-like bumps
- Mild yellowing or white marks on fabric if the product is overapplied
If any discomfort rash or unusual reaction develops, stop using the product immediately and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5 (very low)
Aluminum Dichlorohydrex Pg is highly water soluble and forms lightweight complexes that rinse away with normal cleansing, so it is unlikely to block pores or trap oil inside follicles. It is mainly used on underarms rather than the face and is typically applied in thin layers, which further reduces the chance of buildup. For these reasons people who are prone to acne or breakouts can usually use it without concern.
No data link this ingredient to fungal acne, and it is fragrance free by nature, so it avoids another common trigger for problem skin.
Summary
Aluminum Dichlorohydrex Pg works as an antiperspirant, astringent and deodorant. It forms temporary gel-like plugs inside sweat ducts to cut wetness, lightly tightens surface proteins for a cleaner feel and lowers the amount of sweat bacteria can break down so odor is reduced.
The ingredient is a staple in mainstream roll-ons, sticks and sprays, yet interest has cooled a bit as some shoppers move toward aluminum-free options. Even so it remains popular because it performs better at sweat control than most natural substitutes.
Current research shows it stays mainly on the skin surface with minimal absorption and has a solid safety record when used as directed. Still, everyone’s skin is different so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains Aluminum Dichlorohydrex Pg before regular use.