Alcohol (Ethanol) is a simple alcohol. Alcohol in skincare is used as a solvent, preservative, and antiseptic. It also helps active ingredients absorb better into the skin.
Alcohol (Ethanol) is a simple alcohol. Alcohol in skincare is used as a solvent, preservative, and antiseptic. It also helps active ingredients absorb better into the skin.
Alcohol isn't used as an active ingredient—it's added to support the formula.
It depends on the concentration and type of product. Not suitable for dry, atopic, or sensitive skin, or for children.
Alcohol in skincare is one of the most controversial ingredients. Contrary to popular belief, it isn't universally bad. It all depends on the type of alcohol, its concentration, and, most importantly, your skin type.
The main risk of ethanol is its ability to disrupt the skin barrier, leading to dehydration and irritation. This is more likely to happen when:
• The concentration is high.
• Alcohol (ethanol) appears in the first five ingredients—a sign of high concentration.
• Your skin type puts you at risk. Dry, sensitive, and damaged skin (for example, with eczema) faces the greatest risk, since ethanol can cause severe irritation and further disrupt the barrier.
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