Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

METHYL ALCOHOL.

Avoid CAS 67-56-1 / DENATURANT, SOLVENT

Methyl alcohol, commonly known as methanol, is a clear, colorless, and volatile liquid primarily functioning as a solvent and denaturant in certain formulations. While it can enhance the penetration of other ingredients, its absorption through the skin leads to metabolism into toxic formic acid, posing significant health concerns.

Summary

denaturant solvent masking penetration enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

Methyl alcohol serves as an effective solvent due to its simple molecular structure, facilitating the dissolution of various cosmetic ingredients. It also acts as a denaturant, rendering ethyl alcohol unsuitable for consumption. Furthermore, it can function as a penetration enhancer, potentially aiding the delivery of other compounds into the skin. Critically, when absorbed dermally, methanol is metabolized into toxic formic acid, which is responsible for its harmful systemic effects.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded Methyl Alcohol is safe at concentrations up to 5% specifically when used to denature ethyl alcohol in cosmetic products, without reaching a conclusion for other applications.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Methyl alcohol is not commonly 'dusted' or overhyped for skin benefits; instead, its use in cosmetics is heavily restricted due to significant safety concerns and potential toxicity.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Methyl alcohol is a clear, colorless, volatile, and flammable liquid. No specific optimal pH range for cosmetic formulation stability was identified in the research.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
5%
Sensitization risk High

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel deemed Methyl Alcohol safe only when used to denature ethyl alcohol in cosmetic products, up to a maximum concentration of 5%. Undiluted, it is an ocular and skin irritant. The FDA has issued warnings against cosmetic products containing methanol, stating it is 'not allowed to be part of cosmetic products' under the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive, citing potential severe health problems including dermatitis, vision disturbances, and neurological damage. Its use is restricted or banned in cosmetics by the EU Cosmetics Directive, the Japan Ministry of Health, and Canadian regulations.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Due to its potential for severe dermal toxicity, ocular and skin irritation, and systemic health risks upon absorption, along with its restricted or banned status in major regulatory regions, Methyl Alcohol should be avoided in precision skincare formulations.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…