Cosmetic alcohols have been used in skincare and beauty products for a long time due to their ability to dissolve ingredients, give products a thinner consistency, and act as a preservative. However, there has been some controversy surrounding the use of alcohols in cosmetics, particularly in high concentrations, as they can be very drying and irritating to the skin. As a result, many people have become more aware of the types of alcohols used in their skincare and beauty products and have started to look for gentler alternatives.
Alcohol, fragrance, and essential oils are at the top of the list when it comes to a disrupted lipid barrier and sensitized skin. In this article, I will delve deep into alcohol.
While some alcohols can be very harsh and damaging to the skin, others are gentle and can actually be beneficial for the skin. Therefore, it's essential to understand the different types of alcohols used in cosmetics and how they can affect the skin. By doing so, you can make informed decisions about the products you use and help ensure that you're not damaging your skin with harsh ingredients.
❌ Alcohol
When people refer to "alcohol" in cosmetics, they are usually talking about ethyl alcohol, also known as ethanol. Ethyl alcohol is often used in cosmetics as a solvent, which means it helps to dissolve other ingredients in the product. While it's effective at this task, ethyl alcohol can also be very drying and irritating to the skin, particularly in high concentrations. It's important to note that not all alcohols are created equal, and ethyl alcohol should not be confused with the other types of alcohols that are used in cosmetics and can be gentler on the skin.
❌ Denatured Alcohol
Denatured alcohol is a type of alcohol that has been treated with chemicals to make it unfit for consumption. It's often used in cosmetics as a solvent and preservative, but like ethyl alcohol, it can be very drying and irritating to the skin. While denatured alcohol is effective at killing bacteria and other microbes that can cause spoilage in cosmetics, its use in high concentrations can cause damage to the skin's natural barrier and lead to dryness, redness, and flakiness. For this reason, it's often best to avoid products that contain high concentrations of ethanol, or alcohol denat. or SD alcohol.
Ingredient concentrations matter. So, it's advisable to check the placement of the alcohol on your ingredient list. The higher it is on the list, the higher its presence in the formula, and the higher the sensitivity potential. If found lower on the ingredient list, it should potentially be ok for the skin, but proceed with caution. If you experience sensitivity, then discontinue the product use.
❌ Isopropyl Alcohol
Isopropyl alcohol is another type of alcohol that is commonly used in cosmetics as a solvent. It has similar properties to ethanol, but it's even more drying and irritating to the skin. Isopropyl alcohol can also strip the skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to irritation.
✅ Cetyl Alcohol
Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol that is used in cosmetics as an emollient and thickener. Unlike ethanol and isopropyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol is not drying or irritating to the skin. In fact, it can actually help to moisturize and soften the skin. It's a gentle ingredient that is often used in products like lotions, creams, and conditioners.
✅ Stearyl Alcohol
Stearyl alcohol is another fatty alcohol that is used in cosmetics as an emollient and thickener. Like cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol is a gentle ingredient that can help to moisturize and soften the skin. It's often used in products like lotions, creams, and conditioners.
✅ Benzyl Alcohol
Benzyl alcohol is a type of alcohol that is used in cosmetics as a preservative. It helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms in the product, which can help to extend its shelf life. Benzyl alcohol is generally considered to be a gentle ingredient that is safe for most people to use.
❌ Propylene Glycol
Propylene glycol is a type of alcohol that is used in cosmetics as a humectant, which means it helps to attract and retain moisture in the skin. It's often used in products like moisturizers, serums, and toners. While propylene glycol is generally considered safe for most people to use, it can be a skin irritant for some.
✅ Butylene Glycol
Butylene glycol is another type of alcohol that is used as a humectant in cosmetics. It has similar properties to propylene glycol and is often used in products like moisturizers, serums, and toners. Butylene glycol is generally considered to be a gentle ingredient that is safe for most people to use.
✅ Glycerin
Glycerin is a type of alcohol that is used in cosmetics as a humectant and emollient. It helps to attract and retain moisture in the skin while also helping to soften and smooth the skin. Glycerin is a gentle ingredient that is often used in products like moisturizers, serums, and cleansers.
✅ Sorbitol
Sorbitol is a type of alcohol that is used in cosmetics as a humectant and emulsifier. It helps to attract and retain moisture in the skin while also helping to keep ingredients in the product from separating. Sorbitol is a gentle ingredient that is often used in products like moisturizers, cleansers, and toners.
❌ Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)
Polyethylene glycol, or PEG, is a type of alcohol that is used in cosmetics as a humectant, emulsifier, and solvent. It helps to attract and retain moisture in the skin while also helping to keep ingredients in the product from separating. While PEG is generally considered safe for most people to use, it can be a skin irritant for some, especially in high concentrations.
Conclusion:
Understanding the different types of alcohols used in cosmetics is crucial for making informed decisions about the products we use on our skin. While some alcohols can be harsh and damaging, others can be gentle and beneficial for the skin. As consumers, it's essential to read the ingredient list and research the products we use to ensure that they're safe and effective for our skin type and concerns. By doing so, we can take better care of our skin and achieve the best possible results from our skincare and beauty routines.
Be well. Be safe. Be beautiful!
Disclaimer:
As a blogger, my content may include affiliate links from advertisers. I may earn a small commission from actions readers take on these links such as a purchase, or subscribe. All my recommendations are based on my own research and personal trust in the products that I share. I am not a doctor or nutritionist. Please consult with your practitioner prior to using any products recommended.
This is something I’ve always wanted to know thank you for sharing