Why Alcohol Doesn't Belong In Your Skincare

Let's talk about alcohol in your skin care.

First things first, you'll rarely tell me to avoid a turn-up. But this is a turn-up your skin did NOT ask for, and that it does NOT need.

That's just facts.  

Alcohol acts as a solvent, preservative, emulsifier, and foaming agent. It is often used to make creams and lotions feel lighter, preserve the overall product and to help ingredients penetrate our skin.

As an ingredient, certain alcohols are known to break down your skin’s protective barrier and leave your skin dry. This only exacerbates oil production & removes the skin's ability to retain moisture. In addition, with dry skin often comes breakouts. 

Some of the most common alcohols used in personal care products are ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, alcohol denat, and methanol. They are all known to cause dryness, irritation and blemishes. 

What is most shocking is that more than 99% of products include alcohol as an ingredient. 

Don’t panic though, not all are equally harmful.

The most toxic ones are the ones we listed above and here is why. 

Alcohol Denat

This ingredient helps other ingredients in a product penetrate the skin for better absorption. It is connected to causing skin dryness and irritation, as well as affecting the overall health of your skin’s barrier. 

It can be found in: fragrance, sunscreen, shampoo, face moisturizer and foundation. 

Isopropyl

This chemical is known to disrupt the skin’s barrier and allow for enhanced absorption of other ingredients. The European Union has restricted its use due to its ability to cause eye irritation and because it is a sensitizer. Isopropyl is also toxic if ingested.

It can be found in: nail polish, conditioner, foundation and hair color. 

Methanol

The use of methanol is restricted in both Japan and Canada because it has been classified as being unsafe for cosmetic use. It has connections to developmental and reproductive toxicity. 

It can be found in: bath products and eyeliner. 

Ethanol

This ingredient is also used to enhance the penetration of other ingredients, which often includes other chemicals. 

Ethanol can be found in: serums/essences, face masks, face lotions, lipstick and hand sanitizer. (do we need hand sanitizer on our face?! No…)

When reading product ingredients lists, watch for products that also claim to be “alcohol free” or “natural” & “plant derived”. This is not always true and the above alcohol ingredients may still be listed within the first 5 ingredients. 

Keep a special look for ingredients that end in "yl" or "ol".