Isopropyl Alcohol.

What it does

In cosmetics it works as a solvent, antifoaming agent, and viscosity controller, and it dissolves a wide range of non-polar compounds while drying down quickly without residue. It is a formulation aid, and its drying nature is deliberately used in products like acne spot treatments and drying lotions.

Benefits

• Dissolves a wide range of non-polar compounds and evaporates quickly for a clean, residue-free finish
• Antiseptic and disinfectant (the basis of 60-70% rubbing-alcohol solutions)
• Useful as an antifoaming agent and to control product viscosity
• Its quick-drying, defatting action is purposely used in spot treatments and aftershaves

Side effects

• Drying and degreasing on skin, stripping natural oils with frequent use
• Can irritate or sting sensitive, dry, or broken skin
• Best kept to rinse-off or targeted spot use rather than all-over leave-on application

Who it's for

Oily skin and targeted uses like acne spot treatments, plus formulas that need a quick-drying solvent or antifoaming agent

Who should be careful

Dry, sensitive, or compromised skin should avoid frequent leave-on use over large areas; keep away from broken skin and eyes

• Isopropyl alcohol - Wikipediaencyclopedia
• Isopropyl Alcohol (Explained) - INCIDecodercosmetic database

Researched & reviewed · July 2, 2026