Solvent
Alcohol
In cosmetic INCI, Alcohol usually means ethyl alcohol: a volatile solvent, carrier, and quick-drying component. It can be beneficial in a formula but is not always comfortable for dry or damaged skin.
solventethanolvolatilequick dry
✓ Safe
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
Irritation Potential
0/5
What is it?
Alcohol - a short-chain alcohol, most often ethanol. It differs from fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol or cetearyl alcohol, which act as emollients and thickeners.
Toners, SPF, serums, perfumes, sprays, styling, antiseptic products, decorative long-wear formulas.
Key Benefits
Reduces stickiness
Evaporates quickly and leaves a lighter finish.
Works as a carrier
Helps dissolve and evenly distribute certain actives, filters, or fragrance components.
Provides quick drying
Useful in sprays, styling, and products that need to set quickly.
Suitable for
Main Actions
Do not confuse with fatty alcohols
Alcohol can be drying, especially in high concentrations. But cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, or cetearyl alcohol are a different class, usually milder and more emollient.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Alcohol do for skin?
Toners, SPF, serums, perfumes, sprays, styling, antiseptic products, decorative long-wear formulas.
Who should use Alcohol?
Alcohol is suitable for: oily skin, SPF, sprays, styling.
Are there any warnings about Alcohol?
Alcohol can be drying, especially in high concentrations. But cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, or cetearyl alcohol are a different class, usually milder and more emollient.
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