Abstract: An improved dry pressed powder composition containing, by weight, about 1 to 10% a metal stearate, e.g. zinc stearate, about 1 to 10% alkaline metal carbonate, e.g. magnesium carbonate, about 10 to 50% of a naturally or synthetically derived cellulose or derivative thereof; and about 10 to 60% of aluminum potassium silicate; and a cosmetically effective amount of a cosmetically active ingredient, e.g. about 15 to 30% of aluminum chlorohydrate antiperspirant. The ingredients are blended together in a dry form and pressed into a stick-type form.