Alcohol in cosmetics – its role, effects and is it harmful?

Learn about the basic types of alcohols used in cosmetics. Find out how they work and in which products they are used.

What are alcohols and what role do they play in cosmetics?

Alcohols (including those used in the production of cosmetics) constitute an entire group of organic compounds. One of their main tasks is to dissolve active ingredients. However, this is not the only function of alcohols. Beyond this, they act as:

• Preservatives, which protect cosmetics from the appearance and growth of microorganisms (especially fungi and bacteria).
• Viscosity regulators, which give creams, for example, the right consistency.
• Emulsifiers, which combine water and fat ingredients.

In addition to their key functions in the production of cosmetics, selected alcohols have a cooling effect, reduce the feeling of ‘heaviness’ and even support the absorption and penetration of active ingredients into the skin.

Types of alcohols in cosmetics

The types of alcohol that are important ingredients in cosmetics can be divided into two main categories: those with positive effects and those with negative effects.

#1 ‘Good’ alcohols

This group consists of safe substances whose presence gives a cosmetic product its desired properties. It mainly includes fatty alcohols and aromatic alcohols.

As the name suggests, the role of fatty alcohols (known as emollients) is primarily to lubricate.  This is why they are an important ingredient in hair and skin care products, including creams, lotions, conditioners, oils, butters and masks. You will find them in the ingredients list INCI under names such as stearyl alcohol, isocetyl alcohol, lanolin alcohol, arachidyl alcohol and myristyl alcohol. Cetyl alcohol (cetearyl alcohol), which is available from PCC Exol in two main forms (pastilles and flakes), combines moisturising, smoothing and emulsion-stabilising properties.

Aromatic alcohols, on the other hand, are used to give (or imitate) a specific scent to cosmetics.  Look for them in the ingredients list under their INCI names, e.g. anise alcohol, amyl cinnamate, cinnamaldehyde or benzyl alcohol.

Read also about fragrances in cosmetics.

#2 ‘Bad’ alcohols

At this point, it is worth noting that the harmfulness of alcohol is not evidenced by its use alone, but more by the cosmetic to which it has been added. Its concentration level also plays an important role. Examples? While in the production of perfumes, some substances are highly desirable, they should not be included in the formulation of face creams.

• Isopropyl alcohol (Isopropanol), works well as a degreaser and solvent. However, it has a drying effect on the skin.
• Ethyl alcohol disrupts the hydrolipidic layer, leading to dryness and irritation of the skin.

A potentially ‘bad’ alcohol can be benzyl, which has allergenic properties. However, this does not disqualify it, for example, as an ingredient in a perfume.

Where are they used?

The right choice of alcohols makes them practical for use in many cosmetic products. You will find them in, among other places:

• deodorants, where they have an antibacterial effect,
• micellar liquids and tonics, where they are responsible for dissolving make-up,
• creams and lotions, where they give a light texture and the desired consistency,
• cheeses, where they facilitate the absorption of active ingredients,

Of course, they are primarily present in perfumes, where they are responsible for releasing the fragrance. In addition, they often enrich the composition of anti-cellulite products, acne cosmetics and many others

Harmfulness of alcohol – does its presence in cosmetics have a negative effect?

Is alcohol in cosmetics harmful? There is no clear-cut answer to this question. Its positive or negative effect depends on its intended use (type of cosmetic), concentration and your skin type.

An improperly used cosmetic product can disrupt the hydrolipid barrier, dry out and even irritate the skin surface. However, when used correctly, it certainly brings more benefits. We also advise caution to people struggling with allergies (as a reminder, some types of alcohol can cause allergies).

Alcohol in cosmetics – bad or good? Conclusions.

The basis is the ability to recognise specific types of alcohol (you can identify them by their names on INCI labels) and then match cosmetic products to your needs and specific skin type.

Remember that the absence of alcohol in a cosmetic product does not necessarily mean that the product is better. The real art lies in finding the right ‘balance’. After all, what is good for others may not necessarily work as well for you.

Want more?

The production of cosmetics and personal care products requires the involvement of not only alcohol, but also many other ingredients. If you are looking for a reliable supplier that provides high-quality raw materials – take a look at our offer. If you are looking for additional sources of knowledge about chemistry, you will find them on this blog.