Ethanol
A fast-evaporating alcohol used as a solvent and preservative; useful in light formulas, but drying for sensitive skin in high amounts.
alcohol, alcohol denat., denatured alcohol, SD alcohol, ethyl alcohol
What it does
Ethanol, listed on labels as alcohol or alcohol denat. (denatured alcohol), is a key ingredient in many products. It dissolves other ingredients, gives formulas a light, quick-drying finish and, at higher levels, helps keep products in-date for longer. It is not the same as fatty alcohols such as cetyl, cetearyl and stearyl alcohol, which are waxy, non-drying ingredients that soften the skin and thicken creams.
How it works
Ethanol, or alcohol, helps keep bacteria at bay in solvent lotions or formulations. At high concentrations ethanol can preserve a formula on its own; at the lower levels found in most creams and serums, it supports rather than replaces other preservatives. It also evaporates quickly, which is why it features in lightweight gels, serums and toners.
MG says
Ethanol not only works as a preservative to extend the shelf life of your products and ward off bacteria and fungi, but also gives your creams and lotions a lighter finish. Used in moderation it can assist in the absorption of other active ingredients, though excess use can lead to skin tightness or dryness. For toners, choose alcohol-free formulas, and if your skin is sensitive, avoid products with denatured alcohol high on the ingredient list.
Cautions
Drying alcohols such as ethanol and denatured alcohol can strip the skin's barrier and trigger irritation in dry or sensitive skin, especially in leave-on products where they appear near the top of the ingredient list. Fatty alcohols, such as cetearyl alcohol, are not drying.
