Aluminum
What Aluminum is & what it does
Aluminum is a lightweight metallic element that appears in cosmetics in several forms, most often as compounds rather than the pure metal. In skincare and sunscreen formulas aluminum-based ingredients can act as pigments (when coated on micas), opacifiers, or carriers for color. On an INCI list, the plain entry usually points to aluminum used in colorant or pigment systems rather than as an antiperspirant active.
What does Aluminum do in skincare?
In cosmetics, aluminum most often appears as a component of pigments and colorants, where it can coat micas or form the base of color particles. It can also act as an opacifier in some formulas. On a sunscreen or skincare label, the plain aluminum entry typically points to a pigment-related role rather than an active ingredient.
Is Aluminum safe?
Aluminum compounds are widely used in cosmetic pigments and colorants and are generally considered safe in those applications at typical levels. The forms used as colorants differ from antiperspirant aluminum salts. If you have specific health concerns, it is best to consult a qualified professional.
Is Aluminum vegan?
Aluminum is a mineral element, not derived from animals, so the ingredient itself is consistent with vegan formulating. Whether a finished product is vegan also depends on its other ingredients and the brand's sourcing and testing policies.
Sunscreens with Aluminum
We rate 13 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:
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Azclear Action Day Moisturiser (2021 Reformulation)
92/100
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glenmark Episoft Ac SPF 50
90/100
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Episoft SPF 50
86/100
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Hamilton Everyday Face SPF 50+ (2023)
81/100
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The derma CO Derma Co 1% Hyaluronic Long Lasting Sunscreen SPF 50 Pa++++
78/100
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Rohto Mentholatum Skin Aqua Natural Veil UV Essence SPF 50+ Pa++++
76/100
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NON SUN SPF 100 Ultra Block
72/100
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Di Morelli SPF 35 With Vitamin E
68/100
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Mary Kay Timewise Day Solution Sunscreen SPF 35 Broad Spectrum
63/100
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Hamilton Everyday Face SPF 50+
59/100