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ALCOHOL DENAT. SD ALCOHOL 39-A.

Questionable / SOLVENT

Alcohol Denat., including variants like SD Alcohol 39-A, is a chemically altered form of ethanol widely employed in cosmetic formulations. It functions as a rapid-evaporating solvent and a key penetration enhancer, though its integration requires precise formulation to mitigate potential skin sensitivities.

Summary

antimicrobial/antibacterial solvent viscosity controlling astringent masking antifoaming penetration enhancer preservative

Science

Mechanism of Action

Alcohol Denat. operates as a highly efficient solvent, adept at dissolving both oil-soluble and water-soluble compounds within cosmetic matrices. It transiently compromises the skin's lipid barrier, thereby facilitating enhanced absorption of other active ingredients. Its astringent qualities contribute to a tightening sensation, assist in sebum reduction, and diminish surface shine. Additionally, it exhibits antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, inhibiting the proliferation of various microorganisms, which also extends product shelf life. The ingredient's rapid evaporation ensures a quick-drying, non-greasy finish, and it can further modify product viscosity and mask undesirable odors.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range ≤55.65%%
Optimal

12%

Key findings

  1. 01 SD Alcohol 40-B in a spray formula demonstrated non-irritating effects on vaginal mucosal tissue in rabbits.
  2. 02 Human subjects exposed to SD Alcohol 40-B in a gel formula exhibited no photoallergy, dermal sensitization, or phototoxic responses.
  3. 03 In human subjects, SD Alcohol 40-B delivered via a spray liquid did not induce photoallergy, dermal sensitization, or phototoxic effects.
  4. 04 When SD Alcohol 40-B was denatured with Denatonium Benzoate, rabbits showed only minimal irritation.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Ethanol, the foundational component of denatured alcohol, possesses a pH of 7.33. Alcohol Denat. facilitates improved formulation by solubilizing diverse ingredients and contributes to extended shelf life through its inherent antimicrobial activity.

Synergies

  • Enhances the transdermal delivery and efficacy of other active ingredients.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
12%%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel concluded that Alcohol Denat. and various Specially Denatured Alcohols (including SD Alcohol 39) are safe for cosmetic use up to 12% concentration, provided they are denatured with specific agents like t-Butyl Alcohol, Denatonium Benzoate, Diethyl Phthalate, or Methyl Alcohol. The panel noted that significant systemic exposure to ethanol from dermal cosmetic application is unlikely, thus safety hinges primarily on the chosen denaturants. Data for certain denaturants (e.g., Quassin, Brucine) were deemed insufficient. The FDA has expressed concerns regarding the long-term, daily use of alcohol as an active antiseptic ingredient in drug products.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

While Alcohol Denat. is a functional ingredient offering robust solvent and penetration-enhancing properties, its high irritancy and comedogenicity profile, as indicated by INCIDecoder, necessitate cautious and precise application, particularly for individuals with sensitive or compromised skin barriers.

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