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

SD ALCOHOL 31-A.

Questionable / ASTRINGENT, SOLVENT, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

SD Alcohol 31-A is a denatured form of ethyl alcohol, specifically modified with glycerin and hard soap, to render it unsuitable for consumption while retaining its functional properties for cosmetic use. It primarily serves as a multi-functional agent in skincare formulations, offering solvent, astringent, and antimicrobial benefits.

Summary

solvent astringent antimicrobial/antibacterial preservative perfuming viscosity controlling penetration enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions as an effective solvent, dissolving both water and oil-soluble compounds to ensure uniform ingredient distribution. On the skin, it acts as an astringent, temporarily minimizing pore appearance and controlling excess sebum for a refined, matte finish. Furthermore, SD Alcohol 31-A enhances the penetration of other active ingredients into the skin and exhibits antimicrobial properties, which contribute to product preservation and germ reduction.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range ≤29%
Optimal

12%

Key findings

  1. 01 In rabbit irritation tests, SD Alcohol 40-B at concentrations as high as 55.65% demonstrated minimal irritant effects.
  2. 02 A spray formula containing 12% SD Alcohol 40-B was found to be non-irritating in a vaginal mucosal irritation evaluation on New Zealand white rabbits.
  3. 03 Human subject trials with a gel containing 29% SD Alcohol 40-B and a spray with 12% SD Alcohol 40-B showed no induction of photoallergy, dermal sensitization, or phototoxic responses.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

No data available regarding 'dusting' properties for SD Alcohol 31-A. This term is typically not applicable to liquid alcohol ingredients.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Synergies

  • Active ingredients where enhanced dermal penetration is desired (e.g., certain antioxidants, exfoliants).
  • Ingredients requiring solubilization in formulations.

Conflicts

  • Other potential irritants, particularly when combined in a product where its penetration-enhancing properties could amplify the delivery and effect of ingredients like fragrances, retinol, or Vitamin C, increasing potential for skin reactivity.

Safety

Safety Profile

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

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that denatured alcohols, including types with generally safe denaturants like glycerin and hard soap (used in SD Alcohol 31-A), are safe for cosmetic use up to 12% concentration. While specific data for SD Alcohol 31-A is not exhaustive, its denaturants are considered less problematic. The FDA differentiates denatured alcohol from pure ethanol; however, ethanol itself is FDA-approved for OTC antiseptic uses at higher concentrations (48%-95%).

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

While CIR-approved as safe up to 12% for cosmetic use and providing valuable solvent, astringent, and penetration-enhancing functions, its medium irritancy potential and incompatibility with dry/sensitive skin types necessitate careful formulation and targeted application for precision skincare.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…