Aluminum Fluoride

INCI: ALUMINUM FLUORIDE

A fluoride compound primarily used in oral care formulations

What Is Aluminum Fluoride?

Aluminium fluoride is an inorganic compound combining aluminium and fluoride ions. Fluoride is a naturally occurring element found in water, soil, and food; it is also commonly added to drinking water and toothpaste to support dental health. In cosmetic formulations, aluminium fluoride is used primarily in oral care products rather than skincare.

The ingredient functions as an antiplaque agent, helping to reduce bacterial accumulation on teeth and gums. Its role in topical skincare products is limited, and it is not commonly found in general facial or body care formulations.

How It Works

Aluminium fluoride works by releasing fluoride ions, which are absorbed by tooth enamel and help strengthen its mineral structure. This process, known as remineralisation, can make enamel more resistant to acid attack from dietary sources and bacterial metabolism.

The compound's antiplaque action is thought to involve disruption of bacterial biofilm formation, though the specific mechanism in cosmetic formulations is not well characterised in published literature.

Clinical Evidence & References

Fluoride itself has robust evidence supporting its role in dental caries prevention, particularly when used at appropriate concentrations in toothpaste and rinses. However, the specific clinical evidence for aluminium fluoride as a cosmetic ingredient is limited.

Research on aluminium fluoride has largely focused on its use in medical diagnostics and its interaction with cell membranes at high concentrations, rather than its safety or efficacy in skincare at typical cosmetic doses. Given the minimal use of this ingredient in skincare products, further evidence specific to topical application in cosmetics would be beneficial.

How to Use

If using an oral care product containing aluminium fluoride, follow the manufacturer's instructions for brushing or rinsing. For skincare products, use as directed on the label. Do not ingest oral care products.

Safety & Precautions

Aluminium fluoride is generally recognised as safe at the concentrations used in oral care products. However, like all fluoride-containing products, they should not be swallowed in large amounts, particularly by young children.

Regulatory information

Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.

Show identifiers
INCI Name
ALUMINUM FLUORIDE
EC Number
232-051-1
Function
Antiplaque, Oral Care

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