Ingredient decoder

Alcohol (ethanol): is it comedogenic? What it does in skincare

INCI name: Alcohol

Acne verdict Watch

Worth watching on acne-prone skin

  • ComedogenicNo published rating
  • IrritancyNo published rating

What it does

Fast-drying solvent that can dry skin in high amounts.

  • Antifoaming
  • Antimicrobial
  • Astringent
  • Masking
  • Solvent
  • Viscosity controlling

Alcohol (ethanol) in plain English

Alcohol on a label means ethanol, used as a solvent and to give products a quick-drying, light feel. Near the top of the ingredient list it can dry out skin and weaken the skin barrier, which may lead to more oil, flaking and irritation. Low on the list, in small amounts to help other ingredients dissolve or dry faster, it is usually fine.

Is alcohol (ethanol) bad for acne?

Not usually, but it is worth watching. Alcohol (ethanol) is not a proven pore-clogger, but drying alcohol high on a list can leave skin dry and irritated. Notice how your skin reacts when a product lists it near the top.

Clean routine and still breaking out? The cause may be internal. See what is driving it

Also called

  • Alcohol
  • Ethanol
  • Ethyl alcohol
  • Grain alcohol

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Frequently asked questions

Is alcohol (ethanol) comedogenic?

Alcohol (ethanol) has no published comedogenic rating in Fulton's 1989 table. It is not a proven pore-clogger, but it is worth watching on acne-prone skin.

What does alcohol (ethanol) do in skincare?

In short: fast-drying solvent that can dry skin in high amounts. In formulas it is used for antifoaming, antimicrobial, astringent, masking, solvent and viscosity controlling.

What else is alcohol (ethanol) called on ingredient labels?

On ingredient lists, alcohol (ethanol) can also appear as Alcohol, Ethanol, Ethyl alcohol or Grain alcohol.

Sources