Aluminum Chloride
Aluminum Chloride is a topical astringent agent primarily used to treat hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) by reducing sweat production. It works by precipitating proteins and forming a protective plug in the sweat ducts, thereby decreasing sweat output in the applied area. This medication is commonly prescribed for patients with severe underarm, palm, or foot sweating when conventional antiperspirants are ineffective.
A topical astringent medication used to treat excessive sweating by blocking sweat ducts.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D11AX
- RxNorm
- 1760
- Generic
- Aluminum Chloride
- Class
- atc-d10
- Brands
- Lumicain, Hypercare, Hemox A, Drysol, Xerac AC
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- N
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 0
- Onset (min)
- 15
- Duration (h)
- 24
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- solution, gel, liquid
- Regions
- United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Australia, Japan
- Monitoring
- local skin irritation
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 20% solution applied to affected areas
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily at bedtime
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 10-15% solution applied to affected areas
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily at bedtime
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 20% solution applied to affected areas
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily at bedtime
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteruse lowest effective concentration
avoid application on large body surface areas; topical use only
none required beyond standard prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteruse lowest effective concentration
avoid use unless benefits outweigh risks
none required beyond standard prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingno adjustment needed
avoid application to breast or nipple area; wash hands thoroughly after application
none
geriatric
elderlyno adjustment needed
use with caution on sensitive or compromised skin; start with lower frequency
monitor for skin irritation
pediatric_age
children under 12use lower concentration if available
avoid in children under 2 years; use with caution in children 2-12 years; monitor for skin irritation
monitor skin for irritation or sensitization
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
adolescents 12 17no adjustment needed
standard adult dosing may be used; monitor for skin sensitivity
monitor for skin irritation
renal_impairment
mild to moderateuse with caution due to potential aluminum accumulation
minimize application area and frequency; monitor for aluminum exposure
periodic assessment of aluminum levels if long-term use
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
anyno adjustment needed
no specific adjustments needed as drug is not hepatically metabolized
none
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information for topical aluminum chloride products
Drug class
Drug class information for Aluminum Chloride
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses for Aluminum Chloride topical preparations
Common formulations
Available dosage forms for Aluminum Chloride products
Primary hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) affecting the underarms, hands, or feet; bromhidrosis (excessive body odor associated with sweating); and as an adjunct treatment for acne in some formulations.
Acts as an astringent by precipitating proteins and forming a mechanical plug in the eccrine sweat ducts, reducing the amount of sweat that reaches the skin surface. It may also have mild antibacterial properties that help reduce odor-causing bacteria.
Apply to dry skin at night and wash off in the morning; avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and broken or irritated skin; may cause skin irritation or burning sensation; effectiveness may decrease with long-term use; pregnant or breastfeeding patients should consult a healthcare provider before use.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy