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Moumoujus

ALCOHOL DENAT. SD ALCOHOL 39-C.

Questionable / SOLVENT

SD Alcohol 39-C is a specific form of denatured alcohol primarily used as a solvent in skincare formulations, aiding in ingredient dissolution and product stability. While it can enhance the penetration of active ingredients and offers a rapid-drying finish, its usage is associated with a notable risk of compromising the skin's natural moisture barrier.

Summary

Antimicrobial Solvent Viscosity controlling Astringent Antifoaming Masking

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions principally as a powerful solvent, ensuring the uniform dispersal and stability of various compounds within a cosmetic formulation. It is recognized for its ability to enhance the dermal penetration of active ingredients by temporarily modifying the skin's permeability. Possessing astringent properties, it can temporarily constrict pores and reduce excess surface oil, while its swift evaporation contributes to a quick-absorbing, non-greasy product experience. Additionally, it exhibits antimicrobial activity, supporting product preservation, and can serve as a viscosity-decreasing and antifoaming agent. However, its inherent drying effect has the potential to strip the skin of natural lipids, thereby compromising the skin's protective barrier and potentially leading to dehydration, irritation, and heightened sensitivity.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range ≤12%
Optimal

12%

Key findings

  1. 01 A spray formulation containing 12% SD Alcohol 40-B was determined to be non-irritating in a vaginal mucosal irritation evaluation in New Zealand white rabbits, and related cosmetic formulations were not sensitizers in repeated insult patch tests.
  2. 02 A gel formulation incorporating 29% SD Alcohol 40-B did not induce photoallergy, dermal sensitization, or phototoxic responses when tested on human subjects.
  3. 03 An irritation test performed on rabbits using 55.65% SD Alcohol 40-B resulted in minimal observed effects.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

The ingredient is stable under normal storage conditions.

Conflicts

  • Can cause excessive dryness and disrupt the natural skin barrier function.
  • May exacerbate pre-existing inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis.
  • While SD Alcohol 39-C is specifically denatured with diethyl phthalate, other forms of denatured alcohol, if denatured with methanol, could pose a risk of dermal absorption.

Safety

Safety Profile

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

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel, in their 2008 assessment, concluded that SD Alcohol 39-C, when denatured with agents such as diethyl phthalate (its designated denaturant), is 'safe as used' in cosmetic formulations up to a concentration of 12%. The FDA additionally recognizes denatured alcohol as safe for use in various over-the-counter products, including sunscreens. Despite these safety approvals, its potential for dermal dehydration and barrier disruption at higher or frequent usage should be meticulously considered.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

While SD Alcohol 39-C provides functional benefits like effective solvent properties and a rapid-drying finish, its high irritancy and propensity to compromise the skin's essential barrier render its inclusion questionable for precision skincare formulations prioritizing optimal dermal health and integrity.

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