Arbonne's Official Response to Specific Ingredient Questions

ALUMINUM

Question:
I have heard many stories linking aluminum to cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.  Are these stories true?  Why do I see aluminum on the ingredient lists?

What It Is
Many years ago FREE Aluminum was a suspect in the onset of late-acting Alzheimer’s disease as well as breast cancer, from its use in antiperspirants. The small molecular structure of FREE aluminum can penetrate the skin and therefore was scrutinized thoroughly.

Bound aluminum, on the other hand, is used in large, complex molecules … such as Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate and Alumina … and does not readily penetrate the skin. Instead, it remains harmlessly on the surface.  These forms are used as extenders to cosmetic colors as well as anti-caking and coloring agents in powders.

Why It’s Included
The small amount of aluminum present in large complex molecules in some of Arbonne’s products is used to support color extension without opacity.  This allows for clear color without a flaky, powdery look and feel. The use of these complex molecules in no way compromises the high safety standards that have always characterized these products. There is no FREE Aluminum in any Arbonne product.

The Facts
Many years ago aluminum was suspected in the onset of late-acting Alzheimer’s disease. A large number of studies since then have failed to establish this link. In fact, modern medicine has identified both the genetic cause of late-acting Alzheimer’s disease and the gene responsible for the most common type of this disease.

For More Information
Please refer to the following:
Cosmetic Ingredient Review Board at www.cir-safety.org
Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association at www.ctfa.org
U.S. Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov