Denatured Alcohol
Alcohol Denat. is ethanol denatured with additives that make it undrinkable and poisonous, in accordance with customs and excise regulations. It is a super common cosmetic ingredient used as a solvent, penetration enhancer, astringent, and antimicrobial agent. It is a volatile, low molecular weight alcohol that evaporates quickly, contributing to light, fast-absorbing formulas. Its use in skincare is widely debated due to potential drying and barrier-disrupting effects.
Alcohol Denat. is an effective solvent for ingredients that do not dissolve in water or oil, and helps create cosmetically elegant, lightweight, fast-absorbing formulas. It acts as an astringent, leaving a refreshing feeling on skin, and has antimicrobial properties useful in acne-prone or post-shave products. It can also function as a preservative, particularly in natural formulations.
Can be very drying, especially when listed among the first several ingredients; some experts (e.g., Paula Begoun) argue that regular exposure damages the skin barrier and causes inflammation, though this is debated. May increase oil production over time as skin compensates for dryness. Concerns are primarily associated with simple, volatile, low molecular weight alcohols at higher concentrations.
