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ALCOHOL DENAT. SD ALCOHOL 38-D.

Questionable / SOLVENT

ALCOHOL DENAT., specifically SD Alcohol 38-D, is a volatile alcohol derivative frequently employed in cosmetic formulations for its multifunctional properties. While it acts as an excellent solvent and penetration enhancer, promoting deeper absorption of active ingredients, its rapid evaporation can lead to significant dehydration and potential compromise of the skin's natural barrier.

Summary

antimicrobial/antibacterial solvent viscosity controlling astringent antifoaming masking

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions primarily as a potent solvent, facilitating the dissolution of various active and oil-based components, thereby ensuring homogeneous product formulations and enhanced spreadability. It improves active ingredient absorption by transiently altering skin permeability. Its rapid evaporation provides a quick-drying, lightweight, and non-greasy finish. Furthermore, it exhibits astringent properties, contributing to skin tightening and temporary pore minimization, alongside antimicrobial capabilities that inhibit microbial growth, disinfect the skin, and act as a preservative. However, a significant counter mechanism involves stripping the skin of its natural lipid barrier, leading to dehydration and potential disruption of protective functions.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range ≤12%%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 The CIR Expert Panel deemed certain denatured alcohol types, including SD Alcohol 40-B and SD Alcohol 40-C, safe for cosmetic use up to 12% when specific denaturing agents are utilized.
  2. 02 A spray formulation containing 12% SD Alcohol 40-B, denatured with Denatonium Benzoate, demonstrated non-irritating effects on vaginal mucosal tissue in New Zealand white rabbits.
  3. 03 Incorporating emollients into alcohol-based hand rub formulations significantly mitigates skin dryness and irritation.
  4. 04 An ethanol-based hand gel effectively eliminated a broad spectrum of skin bacteria within 15 seconds.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

ALCOHOL DENAT. is typically included in formulations at functionally relevant concentrations for its solvent, astringent, or antimicrobial properties, not as a 'dusting' ingredient.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Generally stable in cosmetic formulations, contributing to product stability due to its inherent antimicrobial properties.

Synergies

  • Emollients: Co-formulation with emollients can significantly reduce the drying and irritating effects of alcohol on the skin.

Conflicts

  • Ingredients sensitive to dehydration
  • Ingredients requiring strong skin barrier integrity

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
12%
Sensitization risk High

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel considers certain denatured alcohol types safe for cosmetic use up to 12%, specifically those denatured with t-Butyl Alcohol, Diethyl Phthalate, Methyl Alcohol, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Salicylate, and Methyl Salicylate. Data for SD Alcohol 40-B denatured with Denatonium Benzoate was also deemed sufficient. However, safety is highly dependent on the specific denaturing agents used, and insufficient data exists for denaturants like Quassin, Brucine, and Brucine Sulfate. The FDA acknowledges denatured alcohol as safe in over-the-counter products, including sunscreens.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy High
Comedogenicity Medium

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

While ALCOHOL DENAT. SD ALCOHOL 38-D offers functional benefits as a solvent, penetration enhancer, and astringent, its high irritancy and potential for stripping natural skin oils warrant cautious formulation and limited use, especially for dry or sensitive skin types.

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