Aluminum water: use and properties

Aluminum water: what is it

Aluminium water or molybdenum water is a preparation containing aluminium acetate and having astringent properties.  It is rich in minerals, elements and is intended only for external use.  (1)

 It is used without a prescription mainly to temporarily relieve skin irritation. Ιn fact it helps to shrink body tissues, which can have a protective effect on irritation and inflammation.  However, it is emphasized to avoid the contact with eyes.  (2)

Aluminum water: indications

Aluminum water can be used to treat skin irritations from (1),(2):

• Poisonous ivy
• Poisonous oak/sumac
• Insect bites 
• Substances such as soaps and cosmetics
• Jewelry 

It is also often used  on the foots, to reduce swelling, excessives weating, bad odor, and is also contained in products for auditory canal care. (2)  In addition, the aluminum water helps the retreat of knobs or bruises (superficial venous thrombosis) that can result from a fall; sometimes it is even placed on infants, at the area of  vaccination, in  order to prevent swelling (1)  Finally, it is ideal for the care of dry skin.

Aluminum water: use

Some of the most common ways in which aluminum water can be used are the following (1), (2):

• Creating a liquid bandage to temporarily relieve irritations. Soak for a start with a clean white towel, then squeeze to remove excess moisture and apply for 15 to 30 minutes on the problem area. Repeat up to three times a day. For use on infants, first ask your pediatrician.
• Soak the affected area directly, without cloth for 15-30 minutes, every 8 hours.
• To relieve chronic ear infections and otitis externa, especially in swimmers, soak a cotton swab with aluminum water and place it in the ear. However, it is advisable to consult your doctor, in case you have an issue with the eardrum. 

Aluminum water: side effects

Some people may find that they are hypersensitive or slightly allergic to aluminum acetate, which is contained in aluminum water. This often happens when there is an allergy to metals, such as nickel. (2) 

In addition, it is possible to experience symptoms such as redness, swelling or difficulty in breathing over time, even if in the past aluminum water has been applied to the skin without a problem.  (1)

The most common side effects of aluminum water include (1), (3):

• Burning or tingling
• Itching 
• Skin inflammation
• Intense dryness of the skin

When to see the doctor?

Although aluminum water is recommended for the treatment of mild skin irritations, it is not considered a remedy for every skin problem. In fact, consult your doctor  in case:

• you have a fever
• there is severe irritation that lasts throughout the evening
• you experience breathing problems
• the rash covers more than a quarter of your skin or has spread to other areas of the body, such as eyes, mouth or genitals, it is advisable to.  (2),(3)

In conclusion, it is worth emphasizing that the aluminum acetate contained in the aluminum water can provide relief from certain skin irritations, but it may not work for everyone. In case there is no improvement to your problem with aluminum water, ask your doctor or pharmacist for an alternative.

References

1. ALUMINUM ACETATE SOLUTION
2. What is aluminum acetate used for?
3. aluminum acetate solution