Have you ever considered how much alcohol is in your skincare products? Alcohol is a common ingredient used for various purposes in many products, often under different names. While it can offer some benefits , its effects on the skin can be less desirable.
But don't discard products just because they contain alcohol. Keep in mind that some alcohols, known as fatty alcohols, are actually good for your skin, even though it can be hard to tell them apart at first.
In this article, we'll discuss the risks of high alcohol levels in skincare products and clarify the misconceptions about good and bad alcohols.
Why can Alcohol be Harmful in Skincare Products?
Alcohol is a carbon-based compound with an OH (hydroxyl) group and is used for various purposes in skincare. However, it can harm your skin's natural oil production, barrier, and cause dryness, irritation, redness, and inflammation.
While some skincare products contain safe levels of alcohol, it can be challenging to determine the exact concentration. Regular use of alcohol-based products can negatively affect your skin's health, making it harder for it to recover and retain moisture. If your skin feels unusually dry, even after moisturizing, it might be time to switch to products with lower alcohol concentrations.
What’s alcohol used for in skincare?
Alcohol can be found in a wide range of cosmetic products such as skincare, hair care, cosmetics and fragrances. Why do companies use alcohol in their beauty products?
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Preservative: Alcohol extends the shelf life of a product and enhances its effectiveness.
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Deep Cleansing: It removes excess sebum, which is linked to acne and oily skin.
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Light Texture: It helps products feel light and absorb quickly, which many people prefer.
- Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Properties: It has deodorizing effects and can help with skin conditions.
Is Alcohol Bad for Your Skin?
Whether alcohol is bad for your skin depends on the type of alcohol used and its concentration. When the alcohol content is 5% or less, it evaporates quickly upon application, reducing the risk of skin dryness. However, higher concentrations can be harmful.
Safe types of Alcohol in Skincare Products
Isopropyl Alcohol
Because of its astringent and anti foaming properties, isopropyl alcohol, sometimes known as rubbing alcohol, is a common ingredient in skincare products. It hardly has any adverse effects.
Fatty Alcohols
It’s called “Fatty alcohol” to Cetyl, Lanolin, and Isostearyl. These are not bad for your skin health, on the contrary they are used for maintaining the skin hydrated and nourished. They are the only type of alcohol that doesn’t cause any serious skin issues.
Types of Alcohol to be cautious of in skincare products
Methyl Alcohol
Methyl alcohol is a toxic chemical present in cosmetics in small quantities. It may often lead to health issues related to skin.
Ethyl Alcohol
Ethyl alcohol in high concentrations can irritate,dry out or disturb your skin moisture balance.
Benzyl Alcohol
Primarily used as a preservative, it does not provide skin benefits and can be irritating.
Denatured Alcohol
Denatured alcohol is mostly used in body lotions, fragrances and toners to give a matte touch. It is important that it’s concentration it’s not too big, due to this could harm your skin's natural barrier.
Better Alternatives to Alcohol in Skincare
If your skin doesn't react well to formulas with alcohol, consider switching to products with:
- Phytic Acid
- Vitamin C
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Retinol (Vitamin A)
- Niacinamide
- Aloe Vera Leaf Extract
These ingredients can offer similar benefits without the harmful effects of high alcohol content.
Switch to Alcohol-Free Skincare
At Jess Beauty, we understand the importance of using safe and effective ingredients. Most of our products are alcohol free. Those containing "alcohol" on the label are actually made with fatty alcohols like cetyl or stearyl alcohol, yes… the good kind. These alcohols help keep your skin hydrated and don't have the same harsh effects as other types of alcohol.
Safe and Effective Skincare at Jess Beauty
- Cleanser:
Our Face Reset Cleanser uses mild active ingredients like Aloe vera and Green tea extract to keep your skin soft and hydrated.
- Sunscreen:
Let it Sun contains a lightweight, non-greasy formula that protects against UV rays with ingredients like Zinc Oxide, Vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and cetearyl alcohol, all safe and hydrating.
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Serum:
Our Shine Bright Serum was designed to penetrate deeply into your skin and make it healthier and more luminous. How? using Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and fatty alcohols.
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C- Bomb Moisturizer:
C-bomb contains an advanced formula that offers deep hydration and rapid absorption, leaving your complexion revitalized and oil-free. It's your skin's best friend in the quest for ultimate radiance and refreshment.
- Eye Cream:
Our Coffee Break Eye Cream will help to relieve puffiness, under eyes, dark spots and fine lines around the eyes.
Jess Beauty products are free of harmful alcohols and contain only those that benefit your skin, making them an excellent choice for a healthy skincare regimen. But if you have any doubt, you can always check out our Beauty Bible!
