Common Name(s): Aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex,antiperspirant active,fda otc sweat reduction

CAS Number: N/a

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Reduces eccrine sweat gland output by 20–40% through aluminium hydroxide gel plug formation in the sweat duct, providing 24–48h efficacy in fda-regulated antiperspirant applications.

Why It's Used: Azt provides the highest efficacy among fda-listed antiperspirant actives — the zirconium co-ordination complex provides more effective and longer-lasting sweat duct occlusion than aluminium chlorohydrate alone.

How It Works: Al-zr complex hydrolysed in the slightly acidic sweat duct (ph 6–7) forms aluminium hydroxide al(oh)₃ polymer precipitates. these precipitates aggregate with duct wall proteins to form a viscous gel that physically occludes the eccrine sweat duct lumen, reducing sweat output. the blockade is temporary (dissolves over 24–48h with bathing) — not a permanent duct destruction.

Typically Found In: Antiperspirants

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Active ingredient – cosmetic active

Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: Up to 20% (fda otc limit)

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Commercially produced for cosmetic use. verify vegan/halal status with supplier.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic

Sensitivity Concerns: Well-tolerated by most skin types.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Good safety profile at recommended concentrations. ewg score: 1–2.

Works Well With: Standard skincare actives

Avoid Combining With: No known significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Fda otc monograph 21 cfr 350 permits aluminium zirconium tetrachlorohydrex pg at ≤20% (anhydrous basis) for regular antiperspirants, ≤20% for aerosols. azt provides superior 24h efficacy versus aluminium chlorohydrate from the zr coordination complex providing more durable hydroxide gel formation.

Last Verified: Fda 21 cfr 350,antiperspirant otc monograph,azt mechanism review

Primary Sources: 2026-03-12