Aluminium Chloride

  • 6.25% alcoholic solution (Xerac AC, Drysol)
  • 12% solution (Certain-Dri)
  • 20% alcoholic solution (Drysol, Driclor)
  • 15% in salicylic acid gel base (Hydrosal) – can be compounded up to 35%
  • Variable application frequency from qday to qweek – recommended to start nightly then taper to 2-5 nights/week, then decrease to once weekly as needed, depending on concentration
  • Should be applied on dry skin (not sweaty)

  • Eccrine pore obstruction + induction of transient secretory cell atrophy leading to reversible inhibition of eccrine secretions

  • Hypersensitivity

  • Burning sensation (should not be used near eyes, avoid applying to broken irritated skin)
  • Prickling sensation 
  • Irritant contact dermatitis

* For further reading/details: refer to a pharmacology book

  • 1st line therapy for mild-mod hyperhidrosis
  • Good for treatment of palmoplantar and axillary hyperhidrosis 
  • Thoroughly wash and dry areas before application 
  • Applied under occlusion and left overnight 
  • Flammable if not completely dry