What is inside an antiperspirant. Without ‘harmful’ and ‘beneficial’ labels.

We review every ingredient in the context of the formula: its function, regulatory assessment, possible local reactions and the products in which it appears.

167 ingredients

1

Conditioning ingredient1,2-Hexanediol1,2-HexanediolA glycol that dissolves other ingredients and conditions the skin.

A

B

Thickener and structuring agentBehenyl AlcoholBehenyl alcoholA fatty alcohol that thickens the base and softens the feel on the skin.PreservativeBenzyl AlcoholBenzyl alcoholA preservative and solvent that can also be part of the fragrance.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)Benzyl BenzoateBenzyl benzoateA scent molecule that is part of the fragrance.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)Benzyl SalicylateBenzyl salicylateA scent molecule that is part of the fragrance.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)Beta-CaryophylleneBeta-caryophylleneA scent molecule that is part of the fragrance.AntioxidantBHTButylated hydroxytoluene (BHT)Protects the oils and fragrance in a formula from oxidation.Conditioning ingredientBisabololBisabololA soothing ingredient that helps reduce skin discomfort.PropellantButaneButaneA propellant gas that pushes the product out of an aerosol can.HumectantButylene GlycolButylene glycolA glycol that holds moisture and dissolves other ingredients.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)Butylphenyl MethylpropionalButylphenyl methylpropional (lilial)A scent molecule that is no longer allowed in cosmetics in the EU.

C

EmollientC12-15 Alkyl BenzoateC12-15 alkyl benzoateAdds light slip and softens how the formula feels on skin.EmulsifierC12-20 Alkyl GlucosideC12-20 alkyl glucosideAn emulsifier based on fatty alcohols and glucose.EmulsifierC14-22 AlcoholsC14-22 alcoholsA blend of fatty alcohols that helps an emulsion stay stable.Thickener and structuring agentCalcium ChlorideCalcium chlorideA salt that adjusts the viscosity of the base.EmollientCaprylic/Capric TriglycerideCaprylic/capric triglycerideA light oil that softens skin and helps the formula spread.Conditioning ingredientCaprylyl GlycolCaprylyl glycolA glycol that conditions the skin and can support the preservative system of a formula.AbsorbentCelluloseCelluloseA plant polysaccharide that absorbs and adds body and opacity to a product.Thickener and structuring agentCellulose GumCellulose gum (sodium carboxymethylcellulose)A plant-derived thickener that adds viscosity to the water phase.EmulsifierCeteareth-33Ceteareth-33An emulsifier that helps mix oily ingredients with water.Thickener and structuring agentCetearyl AlcoholCetearyl alcoholGives the formula body and helps stabilize the emulsion.Thickener and structuring agentCetyl AlcoholCetyl alcoholA fatty alcohol that gives the formula body and helps stabilise the emulsion.EmollientCetyl PalmitateCetyl palmitateAn ester of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid that softens the skin.Botanical conditioning ingredientChamomilla Recutita Flower ExtractChamomile flower extractAn additional skin-conditioning and care ingredient.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)Cinnamyl AlcoholCinnamyl alcoholA floral-smelling odorous substance used as part of the fragrance.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)CitralCitralA lemon-type scent molecule used in fragrances.pH adjusterCitric AcidCitric acidBrings the formula to the required pH.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)CitronellolCitronellolA scent molecule that is part of the fragrance.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)Citrus Aurantium Peel OilOrange peel oilEssential oil from the peel of bitter or sweet orange, used as a scent component.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)Citrus Limon Peel OilLemon peel oilEssential oil from lemon peel, used as a scent component.AbsorbentCorn Starch ModifiedModified corn starchA starch powder that absorbs moisture and softens the feel of the base.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)CoumarinCoumarinA scent molecule that is part of the fragrance.EmollientCyclohexasiloxaneCyclohexasiloxaneA cyclic silicone that makes application easier and softens the skin.Base and solventCyclomethiconeCyclomethiconeA silicone base and solvent that makes the formula easier to apply and spread.Volatile siliconeCyclopentasiloxaneCyclopentasiloxaneHelps the product spread and creates a quick-dry feel.

D

EmollientDicaprylyl EtherDicaprylyl etherA light emollient and solvent that softens application.Silicone conditioning ingredientDimethiconeDimethiconeImproves slip, spreadability and after-feel.Thickener and structuring agentDimethicone CrosspolymerDimethicone crosspolymerA cross-linked silicone polymer that controls viscosity and stabilises the formula.EmollientDimethiconolDimethiconolA silicone polymer that softens skin and the after-feel.Base and solventDipropylene GlycolDipropylene glycolA solvent that helps distribute ingredients and fragrance in a liquid base.Chelating agentDisodium EDTADisodium EDTABinds metal ions so the formula stays stable for longer.pH adjusterDisodium PhosphateDisodium phosphateA buffering salt that keeps a water-based formula at the intended pH.Thickener and structuring agentDisteardimonium HectoriteDisteardimonium hectoriteA modified clay that keeps particles suspended and thickens the oil phase.

E

Thickener and structuring agentEthyl Ester of PVM/MA CopolymerEthyl ester of PVM/MA copolymerA film-forming polymer.Deodorant ingredientEthylhexylglycerinEthylhexylglycerinA supporting ingredient with deodorant and skin-conditioning functions.PreservativeEthylparabenEthylparabenHelps protect the formula from bacteria and mould.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)EugenolEugenolA spicy-type scent molecule used in fragrances.

F

Fragrance ingredient (allergen)FarnesolFarnesolA scent molecule that also serves as a deodorant ingredient in deodorants.

G

Conditioning ingredientGelatin CrosspolymerGelatin crosspolymerA gelatin-based polymer listed in INCI as a skin-conditioning ingredient.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)GeraniolGeraniolA scent molecule that is part of the fragrance.HumectantGlycerinGlycerinHelps retain water and support skin comfort.Deodorant ingredientGlyceryl CaprylateGlyceryl caprylateAn ester of glycerin and caprylic acid with deodorant and emollient functions.EmulsifierGlyceryl IsostearateGlyceryl isostearateAn emulsifier and softening ingredient of the base.EmulsifierGlyceryl StearateGlyceryl stearateHelps stabilize the emulsion and softens the feel on skin.

H

Plant oilHelianthus Annuus Seed OilSunflower seed oilA plant oil emollient that softens the skin.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)HexamethylindanopyranHexamethylindanopyranA synthetic scent molecule used in fragrances.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)Hexyl CinnamalHexyl cinnamalA scent molecule that is part of the fragrance.HumectantHyaluronic AcidHyaluronic acidSupports the moisturizing profile and skin feel.AbsorbentHydrated SilicaHydrated silicaA mineral absorbent powder that helps the base stay dry to the touch.Thickener and structuring agentHydrogenated Castor OilHydrogenated castor oilA castor oil derivative that adds body to a formula, including a stick.EmollientHydrogenated Palm Glycerides CitrateHydrogenated palm glycerides citrateAn emollient based on palm oil glycerides and citric acid.HumectantHydrolyzed Corn StarchHydrolyzed corn starchA mixture of sugars from corn starch that holds moisture.AntioxidantHydroxyacetophenoneHydroxyacetophenoneAn antioxidant that protects the formula from oxidation and is often part of its preservation system.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)HydroxycitronellalHydroxycitronellalA scent molecule that is part of the fragrance.Thickener and structuring agentHydroxyethylcelluloseHydroxyethylcelluloseThickens the water phase and gives a roll-on formula an even texture.Conditioning ingredientHydroxypropyl CyclodextrinHydroxypropyl cyclodextrinA ring-shaped oligosaccharide that holds fragrance molecules and conditions the skin.Thickener and structuring agentHydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Stearoxy EtherHydroxypropyl methylcellulose stearoxy etherA modified cellulose that controls the viscosity of a formula.

I

PreservativeIodopropynyl ButylcarbamateIodopropynyl butylcarbamateA preservative that protects the formula mainly against fungi and mould.PropellantIsobutaneIsobutaneA propellant gas that pushes the product out of an aerosol can.EmulsifierIsoceteth-20Isoceteth-20An emulsifier that helps hold oils in a water-based base.Base and solventIsododecaneIsododecaneA hydrocarbon solvent that makes the formula easier to apply and softer in feel.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)IsoeugenolIsoeugenolA scent molecule that is part of the fragrance.EmollientIsopropyl MyristateIsopropyl myristateA light ester that improves glide without a sticky feel.EmollientIsopropyl PalmitateIsopropyl palmitateA liquid ester that softens skin and helps the formula spread.

K

AbsorbentKaolinKaolinA white clay that absorbs moisture and sebum.

L

EmulsifierLaureth-7 CitrateLaureth-7 citrateA supporting surfactant in the water-based base.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)LimoneneLimoneneA citrus-type scent molecule used in fragrances.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)LinaloolLinaloolA scent molecule that is part of the fragrance.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)Linalyl AcetateLinalyl acetateA scent molecule, the acetate ester of linalool, used in fragrances.

M

AbsorbentMaltodextrinMaltodextrinA starch-derived carbohydrate that absorbs moisture and binds the base together.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)MentholMentholGives a cooling sensation on the skin and masks the odour of raw materials.PreservativeMethylparabenMethylparabenHelps protect the formula from bacteria and fungi.Thickener and structuring agentMicrocrystalline WaxMicrocrystalline waxA mineral wax that gives a stick firmness and stability.

O

Deodorant ingrediento-Cymen-5-olo-Cymen-5-olAn antimicrobial ingredient that holds back bacteria and so helps against odor.EmollientOctyldodecanolOctyldodecanolA liquid fatty alcohol that softens application and helps dissolve other ingredients.

P

Conditioning ingredientPalmitamidopropyltrimonium ChloridePalmitamidopropyltrimonium chlorideA cationic conditioning ingredient that reduces static electricity.Humectant and conditioning ingredientPanthenolPanthenolSupports hydration and a comfortable skin feel.Thickener and structuring agentParaffinParaffinA solid hydrocarbon blend that helps a stick hold its consistency.EmollientParaffinum LiquidumMineral oil (liquid paraffin)A liquid hydrocarbon base that softens the skin and helps the product glide.FragranceParfum / FragranceFragrance compositionAdds scent to a product or masks the odor of raw materials.EmulsifierPEG-100 StearatePEG-100 StearateA surfactant based on stearic acid and polyethylene glycol.Conditioning ingredientPEG-12 dimethiconePEG-12 DimethiconeA silicone polymer with polyethylene glycol chains that conditions the skin.EmulsifierPEG-150 DistearatePEG-150 distearateEmulsifies and thickens the water-based base.Base and solventPEG-4PEG-4 (polyethylene glycol)A liquid polyethylene glycol that holds moisture in the product and acts as a solvent.EmulsifierPEG-4 DilauratePEG-4 dilaurateAn emulsifier that helps combine the oily and watery parts of a formula.EmulsifierPEG-4 LauratePEG-4 laurateAn emulsifier that helps blend oily ingredients with water.EmulsifierPEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor OilPEG-40 hydrogenated castor oilA solubiliser and emulsifier that helps dissolve fragrance and oils in a water-based formula.EmulsifierPEG/PPG-18/18 DimethiconePEG/PPG-18/18 DimethiconeA silicone emulsifier that helps combine the water and silicone parts of a formula.AntioxidantPentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl HydroxyhydrocinnamatePentaerythrityl tetra-di-t-butyl hydroxyhydrocinnamateProtects the oils and waxes in a formula from oxidation.Conditioning ingredientPentylene GlycolPentylene glycolA glycol used for skin conditioning and to dissolve other ingredients.AbsorbentPerlitePerliteA light mineral powder that absorbs moisture.Plant oilPersea Gratissima OilAvocado oilA plant oil that softens the skin and makes the base glide more smoothly.EmollientPetrolatumPetrolatum (petroleum jelly)A dense hydrocarbon base that softens skin and affects how the formula spreads.PreservativePhenoxyethanolPhenoxyethanolHelps protect a water-based formula from microbial contamination.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)PinenePineneA pine-type scent molecule used in fragrances.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)Pogostemon Cablin OilPatchouli oilPatchouli essential oil with a woody, earthy scent, used as part of the fragrance.Thickener and structuring agentPolyacrylate Crosspolymer-6Polyacrylate crosspolymer-6A synthetic polymer that thickens the formula and stabilizes the emulsion.EmulsifierPolysorbate 20Polysorbate 20An emulsifier and solubiliser that helps blend oily ingredients into a water-based formula.EmulsifierPolysorbate 60Polysorbate 60An emulsifier that helps keep the oil and water phases of a roll-on emulsion together.Deodorant ingredientPotassium AlumPotassium alumA mineral potassium-aluminum salt used in deodorants as an astringent ingredient.PreservativePotassium SorbatePotassium sorbateHelps protect a water-based formula from mold and yeast.Conditioning ingredientPPG-14 Butyl EtherPPG-14 butyl etherConditions the skin and forms part of the liquid base.EmollientPPG-15 Stearyl EtherPPG-15 stearyl etherSoftens how the base feels on the skin.PropellantPropanePropaneA propellant gas that pushes the product out of an aerosol can.Base and solventPropanediolPropanediolA solvent that helps set the viscosity of a water-based formula.Base and solventPropylene CarbonatePropylene carbonateA solvent that helps set the viscosity of the base.Solvent and humectantPropylene GlycolPropylene glycolHelps dissolve ingredients, retain moisture and influence viscosity.PreservativePropylparabenPropylparabenHelps protect the formula from bacteria and mould.

S

Thickener and structuring agentSclerotium GumSclerotium gum (scleroglucan)A polysaccharide thickener that stabilizes the water phase.AbsorbentSilicaSilicaA fine powder that absorbs moisture and oils and makes the base less sticky.PreservativeSodium BenzoateSodium benzoateHelps protect the formula from microbial contamination.Deodorant ingredientSodium BicarbonateSodium bicarbonate (baking soda)A deodorant and buffering ingredient that helps reduce odor.EmulsifierSodium Caproyl/Lauroyl LactylateSodium caproyl/lauroyl lactylateA surfactant based on lactic acid and fatty acids.pH adjusterSodium HydroxideSodium hydroxideRaises the pH of a formula and neutralizes acidic ingredients.pH adjusterSodium PhosphateSodium phosphateA buffering salt that, together with other phosphates, holds the pH of the formula.AbsorbentSodium Starch OctenylsuccinateSodium starch octenylsuccinateA modified starch that absorbs moisture and stabilizes the base.Thickener and structuring agentSodium StearateSodium stearateA sodium soap of stearic acid that controls the viscosity of the base.PreservativeSorbic AcidSorbic acidA preservative that helps protect a water-based formula from microbial spoilage.EmollientSqualaneSqualaneA light hydrocarbon oil that softens the skin and makes application smoother.Thickener and structuring agentSteareth-100/PEG-136/HDI CopolymerSteareth-100/PEG-136/HDI copolymerThickens the water-based base and controls its viscosity.EmulsifierSteareth-2Steareth-2Helps combine the water and oil phases of an emulsion.EmulsifierSteareth-20Steareth-20Stabilizes the emulsion and helps disperse oily ingredients in water.EmulsifierSteareth-21Steareth-21An emulsifier that helps keep oils and water in a uniform mixture.EmulsifierStearic AcidStearic acidA fatty acid that stabilises emulsions and helps build a firm texture.Fatty alcohol and structuring agentStearyl AlcoholStearyl alcoholProvides firmness in a stick, improves texture and softens application.

T

AbsorbentTalcTalcA mineral powder that absorbs moisture and makes the texture feel drier.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)TerpineolTerpineolA scent molecule that is part of the fragrance.Fragrance ingredient (allergen)Tetramethyl AcetyloctahydronaphthalenesTetramethyl acetyloctahydronaphthalenes (OTNE)A synthetic scent molecule used in fragrances.Chelating agentTetrasodium EDTATetrasodium EDTABinds metal ions that could impair the stability or appearance of the product.Chelating agentTetrasodium Glutamate DiacetateTetrasodium glutamate diacetateBinds metal ions so the formula keeps its stability and appearance for longer.AntioxidantTocopherolTocopherol (vitamin E)A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects the oils in a formula from oxidation.AntioxidantTocopheryl AcetateTocopheryl acetate (vitamin E acetate)A stable form of vitamin E that the skin converts into tocopherol.HumectantTrehaloseTrehaloseA sugar that holds moisture in the formula and on the skin.PreservativeTriclosanTriclosanAn antimicrobial preservative that also holds back odor-causing bacteria.Deodorant ingredientTriethyl CitrateTriethyl citrateA citric acid ester used in deodorants against sweat odor.Chelating agentTrisodium EDTATrisodium EDTABinds metal ions so the formula keeps its stability and appearance.

V

Conditioning ingredientVitreoscilla FermentVitreoscilla fermentA fermentation product of the bacterium Vitreoscilla, added for skin care.

X

Thickener and structuring agentXanthan GumXanthan gumA thickener of microbial origin that gives a water-based formula a gel-like viscosity.

Z

HumectantZinc PCAZinc PCAThe zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid, used to moisturize and condition the skin.Deodorant ingredientZinc RicinoleateZinc ricinoleateReduces unpleasant odor by absorbing odorous substances, without affecting sweating.

The name is only the beginning

Concentration, product format and directions matter just as much as the name of the salt.

IngredientRoleWhere it appearsAnalysis

Aluminum ChlorideTemporarily reduces sweat release in the treated area.OKEY, Odaban, Dry Dry, Perspirex, Perspirex, Sinsin, MAX-F, Certain Dri, Sinsin, Effect Dry, Driclor, Vitateka, MAX-F, Dry Dry, Dry Dry, MAX-F, Taeguk Pharm, syNeo, MAX-F, Perspirex, Dry Dry

Aluminum ChlorohydrateReduces sweating in the application area.Dry Dry, NIVEA, Deonica, Vichy, Vichy, Vichy, Vichy, SVR, NIVEA MEN, NIVEA, Skinphoria, Garnier, Eucerin, Just, LR Aloe Via, Deonica, Rexona, Deonica, Uriage, Vichy, Excelsior, Deonica, NIVEA, NIVEA MEN, NIVEA, Deonica, Deonica, KRASSA, NIVEA, Dermedic, Payot, Yves Rocher, Arm & Hammer, GOSH, Deo Activ, Deonica, NIVEA, Bielita, Yves Rocher, Garnier, Ziaja, Arm & Hammer, Lion Ban, NIVEA, Garnier, Deo Activ, Dove, Dove, Excelsior, Lion Ban, Ziaja, NIVEA, syNeo, Lion Ban, Lion Ban, Clinique, Deonica, NIVEA, Arm & Hammer, Lion Ban, NIVEA, NIVEA, NIVEA, NIVEA, GEHWOL, Lancôme, Kiehl's, Deonica, Deonica, Deonica, Garnier, Garnier, Garnier, Garnier, Garnier, Lion Ban, NIVEA, NIVEA, Clinique, Vichy, Vichy, Vichy, Biotherm, Biotherm, Biotherm, Biotherm, Clarins, Clarins

Aluminum SesquichlorohydrateAn antiperspirant active ingredient used to reduce wetness.Rexona, Dermedic, NIVEA, NIVEA

Aluminum Zirconium Trichlorohydrex GlycineAn active ingredient used in sticks and other non-aerosol antiperspirants.Certain Dri

Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex GlyTemporarily reduces sweat release in the treated area.MartiDerm, Lady Speed Stick, Deonica, Dove, Degree, Degree, Dove, Deonica, Biotherm

Aluminum Zirconium Octachlorohydrex GlyTemporarily reduces sweat release in the treated area.Old Spice, Old Spice, Old Spice, NIVEA

Aluminum LactateAn aluminum salt of lactic acid that CosIng classifies as an astringent and antiperspirant ingredient.Perspirex

Aluminum Zirconium Pentachlorohydrex GlyTemporarily reduces sweat release in the treated area.link pending review

Context matters more than a score

Function

Why the ingredient is included: sweat control, solubility, texture, skin care or formula preservation.

Exposure

Concentration, application area, aerosol or non-aerosol format and skin condition all change the context.

Evidence

Regulatory conclusions apply to specific jurisdictions and conditions. We do not automatically extend them to every formula.