What does Denatured Alcohol (Alcohol Denat.) do for skin?

Denatured Alcohol (Alcohol Denat.) is a solvent used in K-beauty for Solvent, Quick-drying, Penetration enhancer. The controversial solvent that's fine in SPF, useful in toners, and drying in leave-on treatments — context matters.

Is Denatured Alcohol (Alcohol Denat.) safe during pregnancy?

There is limited safety data on Denatured Alcohol (Alcohol Denat.) during pregnancy. Exercise caution and consult your healthcare provider before use.

What skin types is Denatured Alcohol (Alcohol Denat.) best for?

Denatured Alcohol (Alcohol Denat.) is particularly well-suited to oily, combination, acne-prone skin. It may be less ideal for dry, sensitive, reactive skin.

How strong is the evidence for Denatured Alcohol (Alcohol Denat.)?

We rate the clinical evidence for Denatured Alcohol (Alcohol Denat.) at 3/5 — moderate. Common in astringents, toners, and SPF at 10–50%.

solventOverhyped

Denatured Alcohol (Alcohol Denat.)

Also known as: SD Alcohol, Ethanol, Alcohol Denat.

3/5— Moderate Evidence

Medically reviewed by ChokChok · Updated April 15, 2026

The controversial solvent that's fine in SPF, useful in toners, and drying in leave-on treatments — context matters.

What It Does

SolventQuick-dryingPenetration enhancerDegreasing

Deep Dive

Not all alcohols are equal. Fatty alcohols (cetyl, stearyl, cetearyl) are emollient and non-drying. Denatured alcohol (ethanol/SD alcohol) is a fast-evaporating solvent that helps absorption and quick-drying finish — perfect for SPF and some oil-control toners, drying and irritating in leave-on serums for dry/sensitive skin. Context is everything: high on INCI of a Japanese sunscreen is a formulation benefit; high on a moisturizer for dry skin is a red flag.

Denatured Alcohol (Alcohol Denat.)

What It Does

Deep Dive

Best For

Not Ideal For

Effective Concentration

Is It Safe For...

Ingredients to Avoid For...

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