Denatured ethanol. It dissolves ingredients, helps the formula dry fast and gives a light finish. At high levels it may dry out dry skin.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
A functional solvent. Safe; drying at high levels.
SD Alcohol 39-C is ethyl alcohol denatured under formula 39-C (additives that make it undrinkable). INCI: Alcohol Denat. / SD Alcohol 39-C. In a formula it works as a solvent and fast-evaporating carrier: it dissolves oils and actives, speeds drying, gives a light matte feel, and supports antisepsis. It is used in toners, sprays, fragranced and sun-care products that need a non-greasy, quick-drying base. Concentration sets the character: small amounts make a neutral processing solvent, high amounts an active degreaser. Tolerance. High alcohol levels dry the skin, raise transepidermal water loss, and irritate dry, sensitive, and rosacea-prone skin. If alcohol sits near the top of the list the product is likely drying; near the end it is a low-dose solvent. Pregnancy safety. At cosmetic concentrations topical use is systemically negligible. The component has no skincare effects of its own.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
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.
SD Alcohol 39-C is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
SD Alcohol 39-C suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
Denatured ethanol.
The INCI name is SD Alcohol 39-C. It may also appear as: Alcohol Denat..
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