Assuming you mean anodized aluminum, I've read that oven cleaner will strip it.... BUT....... I have no personal experience and have NO IDEA the actual process, how long it takes, and whether it will damage the aluminum.

Bare aluminum will not flake, but it can "corrode". This takes the form of a crusty, white aluminum oxide substance.
As long as you take care of it, bare aluminum "works" on guns, since many platers just bead blast aluminum parts to match hard chrome plated steel parts.
Properly cared for and kept clean its usually no trouble.