Ethyl alcohol (ethanol) has been used by humans for thousands of years — in beverages, medicine, household cleaning, and manufacturing. Today, it is also an essential ingredient in many organic cosmetics, thanks to its natural origin and antimicrobial properties.
Yet, some concerns persist about alcohol’s effects on the skin. Does it really dry out or irritate your skin? Here’s what science says.
FAQ: Alcohol in Skincare and Organic Cosmetics
1. What kind of alcohol is used in organic cosmetics?
In certified natural cosmetics, only natural ethyl alcohol (also known as ethanol, food grade alcohol, pure alcohol, or grain alcohol) is permitted.
It is derived from fermented plant sources such as wheat, rye, corn, or sugarcane.
Note: While many substances in chemistry are called "alcohols" (like glycerine or menthol), not all have the same properties. This FAQ focuses on ethyl alcohol.
2. Does alcohol dry out the skin?
No.
Contrary to popular belief, scientific studies show that alcohol does not cause transepidermal water loss (i.e., it doesn’t strip moisture from the skin).
In fact, alcohol-based hand rubs were shown to be gentler on the skin than soap and water, making them preferable from a dermatological perspective.
3. Does alcohol irritate the skin?
No.
Extensive research shows minimal to no skin irritation from ethanol, even at very high concentrations (up to 100%).
Even surgical spirits (70–80% ethanol) have a long history of safe use on skin, with very low irritant potential.
4. Can alcohol cause allergic reactions?
No.
While alcohol may cause a temporary burning sensation on pre-irritated skin, it does not trigger allergic reactions.
So far, no confirmed cases of true alcohol allergy have been found in scientific literature.
5. Does alcohol absorb into the skin?
No.
Multiple studies confirm that ethanol does not significantly absorb into the bloodstream when applied to the skin.
This is due to its high volatility (it evaporates quickly) and its chemical structure, which makes skin absorption difficult.
6. Do alcohol-containing products damage the skin?
No.
Unlike other preservatives, alcohol evaporates in seconds after application, with a half-life of just 11.7 seconds.
This minimizes skin exposure and reduces any risk of long-term damage. In fact, alcohol is less toxic than many common synthetic preservatives used in skincare.
7. Is alcohol suitable for sensitive or dry skin?
Yes.
When used in the low concentrations typical in organic cosmetics, alcohol is safe for all skin types, including sensitive and dry skin.
For combination or oily skin, alcohol may even offer benefits by helping to cleanse and regulate oil production.
8. What are the benefits of alcohol in cosmetics?
Natural preservative: Keeps the product microbiologically safe
Enhances absorption: Helps other active ingredients penetrate deeper
Quick drying: Leaves no residue on the skin
Gentler than synthetic preservatives: Lower toxicity and less risk of accumulation
Conclusion: Is Alcohol in Cosmetics Safe?
Yes. Scientific evidence strongly supports that ethanol is safe and non-damaging to skin, even at higher concentrations than used in cosmetics.
In natural skincare, it plays a valuable role in preserving products, enhancing effectiveness, and maintaining safety — all without compromising skin health.