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Moumoujus

SD ALCOHOL 3-A.

Avoid / ASTRINGENT, SOLVENT, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

SD Alcohol 3-A is a denatured alcohol, primarily ethanol, formulated with methyl alcohol to render it unsuitable for consumption. It is utilized in skincare for its multi-functional properties as an astringent, solvent, and antimicrobial agent.

Summary

astringent solvent antimicrobial viscosity controlling penetration enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions as an astringent by inducing a temporary contraction of stratum corneum cells, which visibly tightens dilated pores and aids in the removal of superfluous oil. It acts as a solvent, facilitating the dissolution and dispersion of various formulation components. Furthermore, it exhibits antimicrobial effects by denaturing proteins and serves as a penetration enhancer, optimizing the absorption of other active ingredients into the skin. It also contributes to viscosity control in cosmetic formulations.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 12–55.65%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Irritation tests of SD Alcohol 40-B (a related denatured alcohol) at 55.65% in rabbits produced minimal effects, with a 12% spray formula being nonirritating for vaginal mucosal tissue in rabbits.
  2. 02 Cosmetic formulations containing SD Alcohol 40-B were not sensitizers in repeated insult patch tests.
  3. 03 Human subject studies demonstrated no photoallergic, dermal sensitizing, or phototoxic responses for gel formulas at 29% and spray liquids at 12% containing SD Alcohol 40-B.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

No specific data regarding 'dusting' or intentional underdosing for SD Alcohol 3-A was found in the provided research.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

SD Alcohol 3-A is a clear, colorless liquid, stable under normal storage conditions with a neutral pH, though it is flammable.

Synergies

  • Acts as a penetration enhancer, improving the absorption of other active ingredients.

Conflicts

  • High concentrations can lead to skin drying and irritation.
  • May erode the skin's surface layer, potentially weakening the skin barrier, particularly at elevated concentrations.
  • Increases the penetration of other ingredients, necessitating caution when combined with potential irritants such as fragrance.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded SD Alcohol 3-A, denatured with methyl alcohol, is safe for use in cosmetics. The FDA also recognizes it for Over-the-Counter antimicrobial drug products. However, high concentrations can cause drying and irritation, and no specific SCCS review was found.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Despite its utility as a solvent and astringent, SD Alcohol 3-A's propensity for drying, irritation, and potential to compromise the skin barrier, especially at higher concentrations, suggests it should generally be avoided in precision skincare formulations.

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