Frequently Asked Questions - Crystal Deodorant

Natural crystal deodorant is made from the naturally occurring mineral potassium alum.  Potassium alum is a natural mineral salt that is also anti-microbial which therefore inhibits odor-causing bacteria.  Unlike traditional chemical-rich deodorants and antiperspirants, natural crystal deodorant stones contain no Aluminium hydroxide (ATH) or Aluminum Chlorohydrate that have been reported to contribute to cancer, skin reactions, and even increase the risk of Alzheimer's.

When the natural crystal deodorant, made of potassium alum, is rubbed on the skin an invisible, topical layer of  the mineral salt is applied to the skins surface, which inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria found in sweat.  So, not only does it prevent odor, it also allows the body to control temperature and release toxins through the natural sweating process. In addition, potassium alum does not penetrate into the skin through pores due to its large size of mineral salt molecular compounds; instead, it simply acts as a pH adjuster whereby creating an environment where bacteria cannot grow, thus ensuring a safe and natural freshness. For more information read How Crystal Deodorant Works.

The benefits of the Verdan crystal deodorant are as follows:
•    100% natural - Pure potassium alum. No chemicals.  No synthetics.
•    No Aluminium hydroxide (ATH), no parabens, no alcohol
•    Clinically proven to eliminate odor for 24 hours with one application
•    Hypoallergenic
•    Non-sticky, non-staining, non-irritating
•    One stick lasts up to one year
•    Prevents odor, does not just mask odor
•    Allows the body to naturally sweat and control body temperature without the unwanted odor

No. There are two types of crystal deodorant stones available in the market, those that are truly natural and made from potassium alum crystal, like Verdan natural crystal deodorant products, and those made from chemically synthesized alum.  Potassium Alum is a naturally occurring mineral found in isolated quarries throughout the world.  Synthetic alum is chemically manufactured in a factory using Aluminium hydroxide (ATH). When the natural crystal deodorant is applied to the skin only an invisible layer of the mineral salt potassium alum is left on the skin, whereas the synthetic crystal deodorant leaves a small trace of aluminum hydroxide on the skin, as well as the synthesized potassium alum.

Synthetic alum is chemically manufactured by mixing Aluminium hydroxide (ATH) with other synthetic sulfate. The resulting mixture/substance obtained from the chemical reaction is then synthesized with ammonium or potassium sulfate. After an initial cooling period, the subsequent product is an alum sulfate powder. Then, this alum powder is compressed to form solid alum which is shaped into crystal deodorant stones. Synthetic deodorant stones appear as an opaque, whitish stone due to the presence of Aluminium hydroxide (ATH) which is also a whitish powder and opacifying agent used in cosmetics.

Thankfully, you are able to tell the difference between the two beyond potentially misleading “natural” labels.  Synthetic deodorant stones are opaque and whitish, and the natural alum is translucent and contains veins like those found in marble.  For more information read Synthetic Crystal Deodorant Stones vs. Natural Crystal Deodorant Stones.

The mineral salt, potassium alum, which is a white, translucent crystal, and is used to produce natural crystal deodorant stones, has deodorizing effects not seen in mainstream deodorants. It prevents odor by stopping bacteria from growing, whereas mainstream (non-crystal) deodorants use heavy fragrances to mask odor, and antiperspirants prevent the body from sweating by using alcohol or aluminum compounds to clog the pores of the skin.

Crystal deodorant is most effective when applied to clean skin, ideally directly after showing or bathing when the skin is still wet. Or, if the skin is dry, simply wet the stone and apply as normal. To apply rub the crystal deodorant stick on your wet skin for 5 to 10 seconds. An invisible, but active deodorizing layer is formed providing a natural feeling of freshness and ensures effective odor prevention.

The potassium alum stone was traditionally used by Moroccan women to maintain firm breasts and to strengthen abdominal skin. Thanks to its astringent properties, it acts as a skin firming and toning agent. Alum stone can also effectively relieve razor burn or hair removal irritation.