Denatured alcohol in skincare
Ethanol with a denaturing agent added to make it undrinkable.
What is denatured alcohol?
Ethanol with a denaturing agent added to make it undrinkable. On the ingredient list, you can find the name Alcohol Denat.. The dictionary uses both the common name and the INCI name, so you can compare the explanation with the packaging.
What does denatured alcohol do for skin and the product?
Used as a solvent and gives a quick-drying feel.
Supporting ingredients can control pH, solubility, texture and stability. They are not necessarily added for a direct effect on skin, but may be needed for a particular product type to work.
May sting or feel drying in some formulations. It differs from fatty alcohols such as cetyl alcohol.
How to read the ingredient list
Look at the product's purpose and overall composition. Position on the list does not tell you the exact concentration used or how your skin will react. One substance can serve several purposes in the same product.
Questions about denatured alcohol
What does denatured alcohol do in skincare?
Used as a solvent and gives a quick-drying feel.
What should I know about denatured alcohol?
May sting or feel drying in some formulations. It differs from fatty alcohols such as cetyl alcohol.
Related ingredients
About sources and ingredient names
The European Commission's CosIng database is a reference for cosmetic ingredient names and functions. An entry does not constitute approval of all uses or evidence of a particular product effect.
DermNet: functions of moisturising care · DermNet: cosmetic formulations