Alcohol Denat.
Ethyl alcohol with denaturing additives. Quickly degreases the skin and creates a refreshing sensation. At high concentrations, it damages the lipid barrier and increases TEWL.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Not an active ingredient but a solvent. Studies show dose-dependent lipid barrier damage and increased TEWL. No therapeutic value as a standalone treatment. At low concentrations (as a formula solvent), it is safe.
- Lachenmeier DW. Safety evaluation of topical applications of ethanol on the skin and inside the oral cavity. J Occup Med Toxicol. 2008;3:26.. PMID 19014531
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- High
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Use with caution
- Sensitive, Dry
For sensitive skin
At concentrations above 10% (high on the ingredient list), it can compromise barrier function. In sunscreens, it evaporates quickly and harm is minimal.
About this ingredient
Alcohol Denat. is ethyl alcohol (ethanol) with denaturants that make it unfit for drinking (diethyl phthalate, methyl ethyl ketone, bitrex, tert-butanol – varies by country). Cosmetics use 70–95% ethanol after denaturing. Mechanism. Solvent for oil-soluble formula components (oils, essential oils, UV filters). On skin it evaporates fast and cools the surface – a refreshing feel. At high concentration it degreases the surface and increases stratum corneum permeability for other actives. Where applied. Toners (especially K-beauty 'astringent'), micellar waters, vitamin C serums (as L-ascorbic acid solvent), spray sunscreens, perfumery, hair care. Cosmetic concentration 5–60%. Evidence base. High ethanol (>20%) on long-term use damages the lipid barrier, raises TEWL (transepidermal water loss), and causes dryness and peeling (Lachenmeier 2008). On dry and sensitive skin – worsens the condition. On oily skin, short contact (toners) is better tolerated. On atopic, compromised-barrier skin and rosacea – avoid. Safety. CIR confirmed safety of ethanol in cosmetics. Topical systemic absorption is small but measurable – not clinically significant. Pregnancy and lactation – topically safe. Topical systemic absorption is 1–2% of the applied dose, peak blood level around 0.003‰ – clinically irrelevant. Oral ethanol in pregnancy is fully contraindicated. Controversy. 'Ethanol as a bad ingredient' is exaggerated in popular 'clean beauty'. The reality is: 1) In formulas heavy in oils and UV filters, ethanol is required as a solvent – without it the sunscreen feels sticky. 2) Below 10% in brief contact it does not damage the barrier. 3) On dry, atopic, compromised-barrier skin, avoid concentrations above 20%. Not suitable for. Dry, dehydrated, sensitive skin; atopic dermatitis, rosacea, perioral dermatitis. Alcohol-free sunscreen alternatives: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral, Bioderma Photoderm AKN Mat (mineral).
Frequently asked questions
Is Alcohol Denat. safe during pregnancy?
Alcohol Denat. is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Alcohol Denat. for?
Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Can Alcohol Denat. irritate the skin?
Yes, Alcohol Denat. has high irritation potential. Start at low concentrations, introduce gradually, and always use SPF during the day.
What is Alcohol Denat. and what does it do in cosmetics?
Ethyl alcohol with denaturing additives.
What's the INCI name for Alcohol Denat.?
The INCI name is Alcohol Denat.. It may also appear as: Alcohol Denat, Denatured Alcohol, SD Alcohol 40.
See Alcohol Denat. in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
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