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ALCOHOL DENAT. SD ALCOHOL 46.

Avoid / SOLVENT

Alcohol Denat., specifically SD Alcohol 46, is a volatile solvent and penetration enhancer widely utilized in cosmetic formulations. It delivers a rapid-drying sensation and a lightweight product texture, while also offering antimicrobial and astringent properties.

Summary

solvent astringent antimicrobial preservative penetration enhancer viscosity decreasing antifoaming

Science

Mechanism of Action

Alcohol Denat. functions primarily as a solvent, facilitating the dissolution and boosting the absorption of other active ingredients into the skin. It contributes to a swift-drying finish and a non-greasy feel within formulations. Furthermore, it exhibits antimicrobial properties, helping to combat bacteria and reduce microbial growth in products. As an astringent, it can temporarily tighten skin and minimize the appearance of pores, and it also acts as an antifoaming agent, a viscosity reducer, and a preservative.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.05–12%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Considered safe for use in cosmetics when denatured with approved agents like t-Butyl Alcohol.
  2. 02 Effective as a natural preservative.
  3. 03 Rapidly eliminated a broad spectrum of bacteria on the skin within 15 seconds.
  4. 04 Did not induce photoallergy, dermal sensitization, or phototoxic responses in human subjects when formulated in a gel.
  5. 05 Co-formulating with emollients significantly decreased skin dryness and irritation.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Alcohol Denat. is a fundamental formulation component primarily valued for its functional properties as a solvent, quick-drying agent, and penetration enhancer, rather than being a superficial ingredient used for 'dusting' or marketing buzz. Its inclusion is typically integral to product texture and performance, though its concentration is critical for skin compatibility.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Ethanol (alcohol) is generally stable across a wide pH range. When formulating with Alcohol Denat., it is important to consider its potential drying effects, which can be effectively mitigated by co-formulating with emollients to enhance skin comfort and reduce irritation.

Synergies

  • Emollients (to counteract drying effects)

Conflicts

  • Dry skin
  • Sensitive skin
  • Easily irritated skin
  • Compromised skin barrier
  • Eczema
  • Rosacea
  • Psoriasis

Safety

Safety Profile

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

The CIR Expert Panel designates 'Alcohol Denat.' and various SD Alcohol types as safe for cosmetic applications at concentrations between 0.05% and 12%, provided they are denatured with approved agents like t-Butyl Alcohol, Denatonium Benzoate, Diethyl Phthalate, or Methyl Alcohol. However, data were insufficient for certain denaturants, and the safety of 'SD Alcohol 46' specifically depends on the denaturant utilized, as it falls under the general 'Alcohol Denat.' category. While the FDA recognizes ethanol as GRAS for direct food use, it has not affirmed its long-term daily safety and effectiveness for consumer antiseptic washes compared to soap and water.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Despite offering functional benefits such as rapid drying and antimicrobial action, Alcohol Denat. exhibits high irritancy and is incompatible with dry, sensitive, or compromised skin types, making it generally unsuitable for precision skincare formulations.

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