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Moumoujus

POTASSIUM ALUM.

Valuable CAS 10043-67-1 / 7784-24-9 / ASTRINGENT

Potassium Alum is a natural mineral salt recognized for its multifunctional properties in precision skincare. It primarily functions as a potent astringent and an effective antibacterial agent, inhibiting the growth of odor-causing bacteria while promoting temporary skin contraction.

Summary

astringent deodorant antiseptic antibacterial antiperspirant stops bleeding

Science

Mechanism of Action

Potassium Alum acts as an astringent by inducing coagulation in superficial tissue layers, leading to temporary skin contraction, reduction of swollen mucous membranes, decreased pore size, and drying of secretions. Its antiseptic and antibacterial action stems from inhibiting bacterial growth by reacting with free organic acid and thiol groups of microbial proteins, causing their precipitation. As an antiperspirant, it forms a porous barrier on the skin surface to impede odor-causing bacterial proliferation. Furthermore, research indicates it activates TRPM4, suppresses inflammatory signals, enhances epidermal keratinocyte proliferation, and improves skin barrier function.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.188–5%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Achieved the lowest Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) against Corynebacterium xerosis, a significant bacterium implicated in malodor production.
  2. 02 Demonstrated excellent inhibitory effects on all tested bacteria responsible for axillary malodor.
  3. 03 Proven effective as an astringent, facilitating tissue contraction.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3 – 4
0 7 14

Stability

Potassium Alum remains stable at ambient temperatures. However, prolonged exposure to temperatures between 60-65°C, or storage over sulfuric acid, can result in the loss of nine water molecules, which are subsequently reabsorbed upon air exposure. Protection from rain, moisture, and heat is critical for maintaining its integrity.

Conflicts

  • steel
  • aluminium
  • copper
  • zinc
  • bases
  • strong oxidizing agents
  • toxic, harmful, or easily dyeable substances (for storage)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Deferred evaluation
Max tested
6.25%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has deferred evaluation, referencing the FDA's classification of Potassium Alum as a Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) substance. The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) concluded that aluminum compounds are safe for use in non-spray deodorants or antiperspirants at equivalent aluminum concentrations up to 6.25%. SCCS notes that it generally presents no irritating or allergenic effects for most individuals, with very low dermal absorption estimated at 0.00052%.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Potassium Alum is a valuable ingredient, particularly for formulations targeting odor control, astringency, and mild antiseptic benefits, with a favorable safety profile and demonstrated efficacy at precise concentrations.

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