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SD ALCOHOL 40-C.

Avoid / ASTRINGENT, SOLVENT, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

SD Alcohol 40-C is a denatured alcohol frequently used in cosmetic formulations for its multifunctional properties, primarily serving as a solvent and astringent. While it aids in dissolving ingredients and temporarily constricting pores, its application in precision skincare requires careful consideration due to its significant potential for skin barrier disruption and irritation.

Summary

solvent carrier astringent antimicrobial viscosity control agent anti-foaming agent penetration enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

SD Alcohol 40-C operates as an effective solvent and carrier, facilitating the uniform dissolution and dispersion of other components within a cosmetic formulation, thereby enhancing texture and stability. On the skin, it functions as a cosmetic astringent by causing superficial skin contraction, which can help to visibly tighten dilated pores and diminish excess surface oil. It also exhibits antimicrobial properties through protein denaturation, demonstrating potent bactericidal and fungicidal activity. Additionally, it can serve as a viscosity control agent, an antifoaming agent, and a penetration enhancer, promoting quicker product absorption. However, at elevated concentrations, it has the capacity to strip natural skin oils, compromise the epidermal barrier, and consequently lead to dehydration, redness, irritation, and potentially a compensatory increase in sebum production.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range ≤12%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical evaluations using SD Alcohol 40-B, a closely related denatured alcohol, at concentrations up to 29% in gel and 12% in spray formulas, demonstrated no induction of photoallergy, dermal sensitization, or phototoxic responses in human subjects.
  2. 02 A 12% concentration of SD Alcohol 40-B in a spray formulation was found to be non-irritating in a vaginal mucosal irritation assessment conducted in New Zealand white rabbits.
  3. 03 The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that denatured alcohols, including SD Alcohol 40-C, are safe for use in cosmetic formulations at concentrations up to 12%.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Safety

Safety Profile

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

The CIR Expert Panel determined SD Alcohol 40-C to be safe for cosmetic use when incorporated at concentrations not exceeding 12%. Its safety profile is influenced by the specific denaturants employed (e.g., t-butyl alcohol, diethyl phthalate, or methyl alcohol) and its concentration within the final product. The FDA recognizes denatured alcohol as safe in certain over-the-counter products, including sunscreens.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

While offering functional benefits as a solvent and astringent, SD Alcohol 40-C presents a high risk of irritation, comedogenicity, and potential skin barrier disruption, rendering it generally unsuitable for precision skincare formulations aiming for optimal skin health.

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