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ALCOHOL DENAT. SD ALCOHOL 38-F.

Avoid / SOLVENT

ALCOHOL DENAT., specifically SD Alcohol 38-F, is a denatured ethanol derivative widely used in cosmetic and personal care products. It functions as a versatile solvent, penetration enhancer, and antimicrobial agent. Its safety and efficacy are influenced by the specific denaturing compounds utilized in its formulation.

Summary

Solvent Penetration Enhancer Astringent Antimicrobial Preservative Viscosity Controlling Antifoaming Masking Agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient effectively solubilizes diverse compounds in formulations, thereby enhancing the dermal absorption of other active ingredients. It exhibits astringent properties, which can visibly tighten pores and mitigate excess surface oil, contributing to a refined, matte skin feel. Furthermore, ALCOHOL DENAT. possesses antimicrobial and antibacterial capabilities, inhibiting microbial growth and extending product shelf life. It also contributes to cosmetically elegant, fast-absorbing formulations and acts as an antifoaming, masking, and viscosity controlling agent.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 15–20%
Optimal

15%

Key findings

  1. 01 Effective as a natural preservative in toners, aftershaves, and colognes at concentrations ranging from 15% to 20%.
  2. 02 Optimal concentrations for bacterial reduction in hand sanitizers are between 60% and 95%, a range typically not found in standard skincare products.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Generally stable under normal storage conditions; however, it is flammable.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Sensitization risk High

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that ALCOHOL DENAT. and various specially denatured (SD) alcohols, including SD Alcohol 38-F, are safe for cosmetic use when denatured with specific approved compounds like t-Butyl Alcohol, Denatonium Benzoate, Diethyl Phthalate, or Methyl Alcohol. SD Alcohol 38-F typically employs denaturants such as thymol, chlorathymol, menthol, boric acid, or polysorbate-80. While the FDA recognizes undenatured ethanol as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for food, it has raised concerns regarding the long-term daily safety and efficacy of alcohol-based consumer antiseptic washes compared to soap and water. The overall safety profile is contingent on the specific denaturing agents employed.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

While offering valuable solvent, penetration enhancement, and preservative functions, ALCOHOL DENAT. SD ALCOHOL 38-F is associated with high irritancy and medium comedogenicity, leading to an 'avoid' recommendation for precision skincare formulations.

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