Are skincare products containing alcohol really unusable?

Many young women are very averse to skincare products containing alcohol. They avoid any product containing alcohol, fearing allergic reactions or skin damage. But is it true that skincare products containing alcohol are always bad? Will they always cause allergies? Today, we’ll analyze the role alcohol plays in these products.

First, let’s understand what alcohol is. Alcohol is ethanol, and its uses vary depending on its concentration. Generally, 95% alcohol is used for medical purposes, specifically for disinfecting medical instruments; 70%–75% alcohol is generally used for medical disinfection ; 40%–50% alcohol can prevent bedsores , and 25%–50% alcohol can be used for physical fever reduction . Therefore, alcohol is quite important in daily life. As long as the concentration is properly controlled, alcohol can bring us great convenience.

However, the alcohol mentioned above is very different from the alcohol added to tthese products. The alcohol used in skincare products is processed using special methods and is in a reasonable proportion. It can evaporate quickly from the skin surface, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and less likely to cause sensitivity. It does not harm the skin and may even have some benefits.

The role of adding alcohol to skin care products

1. Adding alcohol to skincare products can promote skin absorption and help active ingredients penetrate the skin, making the these products more effective.

2. It can remove excess oil from the skin surface, promote the shedding of dead skin cells, and help tighten large pores. For those with oily skin, the effect is still great as long as it is used in the normal amount.

3. Alcohol is an excellent solvent . Most plant-based ingredients in skincare products require alcohol for extraction from raw materials to ensure only the necessary components are extracted. Sometimes, alcohol is also added to extract certain beauty-enhancing ingredients.

4. Improve the user experience of these products. Processed alcohol evaporates quickly from the skin’s surface, making skincare products feel lighter and more refreshing.

Disadvantages of adding alcohol to skincare products

: 1. After alcohol dissolves skin oils and evaporates, the skin is prone to dryness. If you use skincare products containing alcohol for a long time, it is recommended to pair them with highly moisturizing skincare products to balance your skin. Dry-skinned beauties, remember this!
2. Alcohol dilates blood vessels, so people with facial redness or dermatitis should avoid using it.
3. Pregnant women are not advised to use it because their skin is more unstable due to hormonal changes.
4. Beauties who are allergic to alcohol should be careful and avoid skincare products containing alcohol.

　　There are so many skincare products on the market now. When choosing, ladies, you must consider your own skin needs and select products that suit you. Don’t blindly follow trends or develop prejudices against certain skincare products. The most worthwhile purchases are those that suit your skin and help it.

Skincare products containing alcohol often spark concern, but not all alcohols are created equal. In cosmetic formulations, alcohols serve various purposes—from enhancing texture to improving ingredient absorption. Simple alcohols like ethanol or isopropyl alcohol can be drying, especially for sensitive or dry skin types. They’re commonly found in toners or acne treatments for their astringent and antimicrobial properties.

However, fatty alcohols such as cetyl, stearyl, or cetearyl alcohol are entirely different. Derived from natural sources, they act as emollients, helping to soften and moisturize the skin. These are frequently used in creams and lotions to stabilize formulations and improve spreadability.

The usability of alcohol-containing skincare products depends on the type of alcohol, concentration, and individual skin needs. While some formulations may irritate, others can be beneficial when used appropriately. Understanding ingredient labels and knowing your skin type are key to making informed choices in your skincare routine.