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Denatured Alcohol

Solvent

Also known as: Alcohol Denat., SD Alcohol, Ethanol, Isopropyl Alcohol, Alcohol

Best for:All

Simple alcohols used as solvents to help products dry quickly and enhance penetration. Can be drying and irritating.

Time to results

Results vary by individual and formulation

Benefits

Quick-drying, enhances penetration of actives, degreasing, creates lightweight product feel.

How to Use

Present in toners, sunscreens, and quick-drying formulations.

Technical Details
Typical Concentrations5%-40%
Research Summary

Effective solvent and penetration enhancer but documented to damage skin barrier with repeated use. Higher on ingredient lists indicates more drying potential.

What to Avoid With
  • dry skin
  • sensitive skin
  • eczema
  • rosacea

Cautions

Drying and irritating, especially for dry or sensitive skin. Disrupts skin barrier with regular use. Evaporates quickly, leaving skin dehydrated.

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