What Is Sodium/Aluminum/Iron/Sulfate/Oxalate/Hydroxide?
Sodium/Aluminum/Iron/Sulfate/Oxalate/Hydroxide is a specialty mineral complex created by reacting aluminum sulfate, ferric sulfate, sodium hydroxide and oxalic acid in controlled conditions. The result is a multi-metal salt that combines sodium, aluminum and iron ions with sulfate, oxalate and hydroxide groups. This combination gives the ingredient a balanced mix of water binding, deodorizing and antimicrobial properties that formulators value.
The idea of blending metal salts for cosmetic use traces back to traditional alum stones and iron-rich clays that have long been used for odor control and skin purification. Modern processing refines that concept: the raw sulfates are dissolved in water, sodium hydroxide is slowly added to adjust pH and trigger precipitation, then oxalic acid is introduced to fine-tune the chelating capacity. The slurry is filtered, washed and spray-dried into a fine white-to-off-white powder that is easy to disperse in both water-based and some anhydrous systems.
You will most often see Sodium/Aluminum/Iron/Sulfate/Oxalate/Hydroxide in stick and roll-on deodorants, clarifying or detox masks, mattifying face powders, scalp purifying shampoos, blemish spot treatments and certain lightweight moisturizers aimed at oily or sweaty skin types. Its multitasking profile lets brands cut back on separate preservatives, absorbents and humectants, helping streamline formulas without sacrificing performance.
Sodium/Aluminum/Iron/Sulfate/Oxalate/Hydroxide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient pulls its weight in a formula by serving several roles at once:
- Antimicrobial – inhibits odor-causing bacteria on skin helping deodorants and clarifying products stay fresher longer
- Chelating – binds stray metal ions in a formula boosting preservative efficacy and preventing discoloration that can occur from trace metals
- Deodorant – works with its antimicrobial action and mild astringency to reduce sweat-related odors making it a natural choice for underarm and foot products
- Humectant – attracts and holds water at the skin surface providing light hydration without a greasy feel suitable for oily or combination skin
- Opacifying – adds a soft matte look to clear bases giving creams and gels a uniform appearance while helping blur minor skin imperfections
Who Can Use Sodium/Aluminum/Iron/Sulfate/Oxalate/Hydroxide
This multitasking mineral blend is generally well suited to normal, combination and oily skin because it controls odor, absorbs excess moisture and offers light hydration without heaviness. Sensitive or very dry skin may find it a bit tightening since the astringent metal salts can pull water from the surface so those users should pair it with richer emollients or choose lower concentrations.
The ingredient is synthesized entirely from inorganic salts so it contains no animal byproducts, making it acceptable for both vegetarians and vegans. As always cruelty free status depends on the brand’s own testing policies.
Current safety data show minimal systemic absorption through intact skin, which suggests it can be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all personal care products with a qualified healthcare professional just to be safe.
Sodium/Aluminum/Iron/Sulfate/Oxalate/Hydroxide is not known to increase photosensitivity so daytime use does not require extra sun precautions beyond a standard broad spectrum sunscreen. It is also fragrance free and non volatile, making it a low-odor choice for those who dislike strongly scented formulas.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Sodium/Aluminum/Iron/Sulfate/Oxalate/Hydroxide vary from person to person. The issues listed below are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Transient stinging or mild burning on freshly shaved or broken skin
- Dryness or a tight feeling in users with very dry or compromised skin barriers
- Redness or irritation in individuals allergic to aluminum or iron salts
- Potential staining of light fabrics if product is not fully absorbed before dressing
- Minor pH shifts when layered with highly acidic treatments which can temporarily alter product texture or efficacy
If any discomfort, persistent redness or other adverse reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Sodium/Aluminum/Iron/Sulfate/Oxalate/Hydroxide is a water soluble mineral blend that sits on the skin’s surface and rinses away easily. It lacks oily carriers or waxy film formers that normally plug pores, so the chance of it trapping sebum and dead cells is low. A slight risk remains because its astringent action can dry the skin and prompt rebound oil in some users, but real-world reports of clogged pores are rare.
Suitable for acne-prone skin in most cases.
Because it is typically used at low levels and is often paired with lightweight bases, the overall pore-clogging potential of finished products stays minimal.
Summary
Sodium/Aluminum/Iron/Sulfate/Oxalate/Hydroxide is a multitasking mineral complex that fights odor with antimicrobial metals, keeps formulas stable by chelating stray ions, absorbs smells as a deodorant salt, pulls in a touch of moisture for a light humectant feel, and scatters light to give creams and gels an even matte look. The sodium, aluminum and iron ions disrupt bacterial growth while the sulfate and oxalate groups latch onto excess metals. Its fine powder form helps it blend smoothly into many water based products.
It is a niche ingredient rather than a mainstream star, showing up mostly in natural style deodorants, clarifying masks and a few oil control moisturizers where brands want one powder to cover several jobs at once.
Current data show it is low risk when used as directed, with minimal absorption through healthy skin and few reports of irritation. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to patch test a product first to confirm personal tolerance.