What Is Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 23-F?
Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 23-F is a form of ethyl alcohol that has been rendered non-drinkable by adding small amounts of salicylic acid, resorcinol and either bergamot oil or bay (myrica) oil. This denaturing step keeps it exempt from beverage taxes while leaving its performance in topical products unchanged. The base ethanol is usually produced by fermenting and distilling natural sugars or grains. After purification the denaturing agents are blended in following the United States regulations set out in 27 CFR 21, creating a clear fast-evaporating liquid that carries a faint herbal or citrus note from the added oils.
The use of denatured alcohol in cosmetics dates back to the early twentieth century when formulators sought a quick-dry carrier for fragrances and hair sprays. Over time specific denatured grades like Sd Alcohol 23-F were standardized so manufacturers could choose versions tailored to skin care or fragrance work. Today this ingredient appears in lightweight toners, facial mists, setting sprays, perfumes, aftershaves, acne cleansers, peel-off masks, quick-dry nail treatments and some oil-free lotions where a clean finish and rapid absorption are key.
Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 23-F’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Its role in formulas is straightforward yet valuable.
As a solvent it dissolves fragrance oils active botanicals and film formers then evaporates quickly to leave a weightless feel on skin or hair. This helps deliver a clear stable product improves the spread of key ingredients and speeds drying time so the user experiences a fresh non-tacky finish.
Who Can Use Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 23-F
This solvent is generally best suited to normal, combination or oily skin that appreciates a quick dry feel. Those same fast-evaporating properties can pull water from the surface so very dry or easily irritated skin may find regular use too dehydrating, especially if the formula is high in alcohol or short on replenishing ingredients. People with compromised barriers, active eczema or rosacea should be cautious for the same reason.
SD Alcohol 23-F is produced from plant sugars or grains and the denaturing agents are synthetic or botanical so it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly with no animal derivatives involved in its manufacture.
Topical use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding is not known to pose a risk because systemic absorption of ethanol from cosmetics is minimal. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss all skincare choices with a qualified health professional to be safe.
The ingredient itself is not regarded as photosensitising. Although bergamot oil can contain light-reactive compounds the levels used for denaturing are tiny and suppliers typically choose furocoumarin-free grades, so no special sun restrictions apply beyond daily sunscreen best practice.
One practical note worth mentioning is flammability. High-alcohol products should be kept away from open flames and stored in a cool place.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 23-F vary between individuals. The points below describe potential effects only and most users will not encounter them when the ingredient has been correctly formulated and used.
- Dryness or tightness prolonged or frequent exposure can strip natural lipids leading to a parched feel
- Stinging or burning on application more likely on broken or freshly exfoliated skin
- Redness or flushing especially in those with sensitive or reactive skin types
- Allergic contact dermatitis rare but possible from salicylic acid resorcinol or essential oil components used to denature the alcohol
- Exacerbation of eczema or rosacea symptoms when barrier function is already weakened
If any irritation or discomfort occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5
Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 23-F is a lightweight volatile liquid that flashes off the skin in seconds and leaves no residue that could block pores or trap sebum. It contains no oils waxes or heavy emollients so it earns a comedogenic rating of 0.
This makes the ingredient generally suitable for those prone to acne and breakouts.
Because it evaporates so quickly any risk of pore clogging comes from other ingredients in the formula rather than the alcohol itself.
Summary
Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 23-F is primarily a solvent that dissolves fragrance oils actives and film formers then evaporates to give products a fast dry feel. Its volatility also helps thin out textures and enhance the spread of other ingredients.
The ingredient is popular in perfumes facial mists toners setting sprays and quick dry nail products where a weightless after feel is desirable. It is less common in rich creams or balms because its rapid evaporation can be drying.
When used as intended it is considered safe for topical use though people with very dry or sensitive skin may notice tightness if the overall formula is high in alcohol. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to patch test first to check personal tolerance.