Alum has certain antibacterial and antimicrobial abilities. In the formulation of deodorants, it can inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause unpleasant odors. Many unpleasant smells, such as body odor from sweat and garbage odors, are largely due to the metabolic products emitted by bacteria when they decompose organic matter. Components in alum like aluminum ions can interfere with the cell membrane structure and physiological metabolic processes of bacteria, making it difficult for bacteria to grow and reproduce normally, thus reducing the generation of odors at the source. For example, when alum is added to shoe deodorants for sports shoes, it can effectively prevent the growth of bacteria in the damp environment inside the shoes, keeping the shoes smelling fresh and free from pungent odors.
Its astringent property is also the key to deodorization. Alum can coagulate proteins. When applied to the body surface or the surface of items that are prone to emitting odors, it can make sweat gland ducts and other parts contract moderately. For areas of the human body with more sweat secretion, such as the armpits, the use of deodorants containing alum can help control the secretion of sweat to a certain extent, reducing the amount of sweat excreted and thus lowering the possibility of producing a bad smell due to the decomposition of sweat by bacteria. Moreover, when the alum component in deodorant sprays used in some garbage disposal sites comes into contact with the surface of garbage, it can “fix” some water-soluble odor substances in the garbage, making them less likely to volatilize into the air and alleviating the stench in the surrounding environment.
In the complex formulation system of modern deodorants, alum also plays a role in cooperating with other ingredients. It can be combined with substances with adsorption functions, such as activated carbon powder. The activated carbon is responsible for adsorbing the odor molecules that have already been produced, while alum is responsible for inhibiting the regeneration of bacteria and controlling the source of odors. The two complement each other and greatly enhance the deodorizing effect. Meanwhile, when combined with some plant essential oil ingredients, the stability of alum can help protect the slow release of essential oil components, prolonging the action time of deodorants and bringing users a long-lasting fresh experience.
In conclusion, with its various properties, alum firmly occupies a place in the field of deodorants and continues to contribute to deodorizing and purifying our lives and the environment.
