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SD ALCOHOL 39.

Avoid / ASTRINGENT, SOLVENT, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

SD Alcohol 39 is a denatured alcohol primarily utilized as a solvent and cosmetic astringent in skincare formulations. While it offers a rapid-drying finish and an immediate degreasing effect, its application is associated with potential disruption of the skin's natural barrier and heightened sensitivity.

Summary

Solvent Astringent Viscosity Control Agent Antiseptic Penetration Enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

SD Alcohol 39 functions as a highly effective solvent, facilitating the dissolution and dispersion of various cosmetic ingredients including oils, dyes, and preservatives. It provides a cosmetic astringent action by temporarily constricting dilated pores and reducing excess surface sebum. Additionally, it acts as a viscosity control agent and can enhance the percutaneous penetration of other active compounds. While possessing antiseptic properties, its rapid evaporation and degreasing capabilities can strip the skin of vital natural lipids, thereby compromising the skin barrier and potentially leading to a compensatory increase in oil production, particularly concerning for oily or acne-prone skin types.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted

SD Alcohol 39 is frequently scrutinized in precision skincare due to its known potential for high skin irritancy, significant disruption of the skin barrier, and associated issues such as dryness, sensitivity, and paradoxical rebound oiliness. Despite its functional benefits as a solvent, its detrimental impact on skin health often outweighs its utility for many consumers.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

SD Alcohol 39-C, a common variant, is typically a clear, colorless liquid with a neutral pH, demonstrating stability under standard storage conditions. However, it is inherently flammable.

Conflicts

  • Known to be highly drying and capable of disrupting the skin barrier, leading to increased irritation and sensitivity.
  • May induce skin irritation in individuals with sensitive skin.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Insufficient data
Sensitization risk High

The CIR Expert Panel concluded there was insufficient data to support the safety of SD Alcohol 39 when denatured with Quassin, Brucine, and/or Brucine Sulfate, with SD Alcohol 39 commonly denatured with Quassin. Conversely, SD Alcohol 39-C (denatured with diethyl phthalate) was deemed safe for cosmetic use. Topically applied ethanol, the primary constituent of denatured alcohol, is associated with a risk of skin irritation and contact dermatitis and can act as a penetration enhancer.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Despite its functional benefits as a solvent and astringent, SD Alcohol 39 presents a high risk of skin irritation, significant barrier disruption, and may induce rebound oiliness, compounded by the CIR panel's finding of insufficient safety data for its commonly denatured form.

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