Aluminum Zirconium Trichlorohydrate is a complex inorganic compound commonly used as an active ingredient in antiperspirants and deodorants. It functions by forming a gel-like barrier in the sweat glands, effectively reducing perspiration and body odor.

Chemical Composition and Structure:

• Aluminum (Al): A metal element that contributes to the formation of the gel-like plug in sweat ducts.
• Zirconium (Zr): A metal that enhances the stability and efficacy of the aluminum-based complex.
• Chlorine (Cl): Chlorine atoms are integrated into the complex to ensure its stability and effectiveness.
• Water (H₂O): Present as a hydrate, aiding in the solubilization of the complex and its application.

Structurally, Aluminum Zirconium Trichlorohydrate consists of aluminum and zirconium salts complexed with chlorine and water. This complex forms a stable gel upon contact with sweat, creating a barrier that reduces sweat production.

Physical Properties:

• Appearance: Typically a white to off-white crystalline powder.
• Odor: Generally odorless, making it suitable for various formulations without affecting fragrance.
• Solubility: Soluble in water; forms a clear solution or gel when mixed with liquids.

Production Process:

1. Synthesis: The compound is synthesized through a controlled chemical reaction involving aluminum chloride and zirconium chloride with water.
2. Purification: The resulting product undergoes purification to remove any unreacted materials and impurities.
3. Formulation: The purified Aluminum Zirconium Trichlorohydrate is then incorporated into antiperspirant or deodorant formulations.

Applications:

• Medical: Occasionally used in dermatological products for excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis).
• Cosmetics: Primarily used in antiperspirants and deodorants for its effective sweat-blocking properties.

INCI Functions:

Antiperspirant. Controls both sweat and body odour by preventing sweat from reaching the stratum corneum with a preventive bactericidal action. If sweat has just reached the epidermal surface, it creates a temporary agglomeration on the sweat gland that will be removed by washing.

Cosmetic astringent. This ingredient exerts a direct effect on the skin by tightening dilated pores by contracting stratum corneum cells and removing superfluous oil.

Deodorant agent. When substances that give off an unpleasant odour are included in cosmetic formulations (typical examples are methyl mercaptan and hydrogen sulphide derived from garlic), deodorants attenuate or eliminate the unpleasant exhalation.

CAS: 98106-53-7

Cosmetic safety

Restricted cosmetic ingredient as III/50 a Relevant Item in the Annexes of the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. Substance or ingredient reported: Aluminium zirconium chloride hydroxide complexes AlxZr(OH)yClz and the aluminium zirconium chloride hydroxide glycine complexes. 

Maximum concentration in ready for use preparation 20% (as anhydrous aluminium zirconium chloride hydroxide) 5.4% (as zirconium).

The ratio of the number of aluminium atoms to that of zirconium atoms must be between 2 and 10 2. The ratio of the number of (Al+Zr) atoms to that of chlorine atoms must be between 0.9 and 2.1 3. Not to be used in aerosols dispensers (sprays).