Aluminum in deodorant is primarily found in antiperspirants, not in deodorants alone. Its role is to reduce sweating by temporarily blocking the sweat ducts. Aluminum salts dissolve on the skin and "melt" into the pores, forming a plug that prevents sweat from reaching the skin's surface, thereby reducing moisture and the environment where odor-causing bacteria thrive
. Deodorants without aluminum simply mask or neutralize body odor but do not affect sweat production. Antiperspirants combine deodorizing agents with aluminum compounds to both reduce sweat and odor
. There is no conclusive scientific evidence linking aluminum in antiperspirants to cancer or other serious health problems. The skin acts as a strong barrier preventing significant absorption of aluminum into the bloodstream. Health organizations and dermatologists consider aluminum- containing antiperspirants safe and effective for controlling sweat
. In summary, aluminum in antiperspirants works by plugging sweat ducts to reduce sweating and help keep underarms dry, while deodorants without aluminum only address odor
