Ethanol.

What it does

" It is a versatile, fast-evaporating solvent with bactericidal and antifungal action, used to dissolve actives and fragrances, extract botanicals, give products a light quick-drying feel, and disinfect. It is a formulation and processing aid rather than a skin-care benefit ingredient.

Benefits

• Broad solvent power that dissolves many ingredients water and oil cannot, useful for thin, elegant formulas
• Antiseptic and antimicrobial, with bactericidal and antifungal effects (the basis of hand sanitizers and medical wipes)
• Evaporates fast and is easy to remove, making it a popular extracting agent for botanicals
• Acts as an astringent and penetration enhancer in toners and lightweight products

Side effects

• Pure ethanol will irritate the skin and eyes
• Drying and dehydrating in high amounts or with frequent leave-on use
• May sting or aggravate sensitive, broken, or barrier-compromised skin

Who it's for

Oily or combination skin comfortable with a fast-drying feel, and formulas needing a solvent, extractant, or antimicrobial carrier

Who should be careful

Dry, sensitive, or compromised skin should limit high-concentration leave-on exposure; keep away from broken skin and eyes

• Ethanol - Wikipediaencyclopedia
• Alcohol (Ethanol, Explained) - INCIDecodercosmetic database

Researched & reviewed · July 2, 2026