What Is Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-D?
Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-D is simply ethyl alcohol that has been denatured, or made undrinkable, with a small amount of menthol and a formaldehyde solution as set out in federal rule 27 CFR 21. The base alcohol is the same type produced by fermenting and distilling plant sugars or starches, most often from corn or sugarcane. Once the pure ethanol is collected, manufacturers add the menthol and formaldehyde blend so it will not be consumed as a beverage, which also allows it to be sold for cosmetic use without the beverage alcohol tax.
Ethanol has been part of beauty routines for generations because it evaporates fast and leaves a clean feel on the skin. Denatured grades like SD 38-D became common in the mid-20th century when regulators began requiring clear markers to separate cosmetic alcohol from drinkable spirits. Today the ingredient is prepared in large vats where measured amounts of menthol and formaldehyde solution are mixed into high-proof ethanol, then filtered and tested for purity before shipment to cosmetic labs.
You will find Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-D in products that benefit from quick drying and a lightweight skin feel. Typical examples include facial toners, astringent lotions, makeup setting sprays, fragrance mists, hair sprays, hand sanitizers, nail polish removers and some clay or peel-off masks.
Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-D’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves one main purpose in formulas, yet that single role brings several practical perks.
Solvent: Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-D efficiently dissolves other ingredients, especially oils, plant extracts and fragrance compounds, then keeps them evenly mixed. Because it flashes off the skin quickly it helps a product feel light, speeds up drying time, improves the spread of active ingredients and enhances the overall sensory experience without leaving residue.
Who Can Use Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-D
Because it evaporates rapidly and leaves no oily residue, Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-D suits normal, combination and oily skin that benefits from a lightweight finish. Dry or sensitive skin may find repeated exposure dehydrating since alcohol can pull moisture from the surface, potentially leading to tightness or irritation. Those with compromised skin barriers, eczema or rosacea should approach products containing high amounts of this alcohol cautiously and look for formulas buffered with humectants or soothing agents.
The ethanol used in SD 38-D is plant derived and the denaturants menthol and formaldehyde solution are synthetic, so the ingredient itself is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal-based additives or testing are inherently required for its production, though consumers who follow strict cruelty-free standards should still verify a finished brand’s overall animal testing policy.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals can generally use cosmetics containing Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-D on intact skin since systemic absorption from topical use is minimal. That said this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should review all personal care products with their healthcare provider to be extra safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and carries no known phototoxic risk. It is also fragrance free apart from the slight minty odor from menthol in the denaturant blend, which usually flashes off quickly.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-D differ between individuals. The points below outline potential side effects that could occur though most people will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-balanced formula.
- Dryness or flaking: Fast evaporation can strip surface water leading to a parched feel and visible flakes especially on already dry skin
- Stinging or burning: Freshly exfoliated skin or open blemishes may react with a brief burning sensation due to alcohol’s solvent power
- Redness or irritation: Sensitive or compromised skin barriers can become inflamed when exposed to higher alcohol concentrations
- Contact dermatitis: Rare allergic or irritant reactions may appear as itching rash or bumps particularly in those intolerant to menthol or formaldehyde residues
- Excess oil rebound: Oily skin may temporarily overproduce sebum after aggressive drying creating more shine later in the day
If any discomfort or visible reaction develops discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5 – Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-D is a light, volatile liquid that evaporates almost as soon as it touches the skin so it does not linger in pores or leave a film that could trap dead cells or sebum. Because it disappears quickly and contains no fatty acids or heavy oils it is considered non-comedogenic. This makes it generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.
Since it flashes off the surface, any clogging risk would come from other ingredients in the formula, not from the alcohol itself. However very high alcohol levels can dry the skin which might prompt an oil rebound in some individuals, indirectly leading to congestion if the rest of a skincare routine is not balanced.
Summary
Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-D is best known as a fast-evaporating solvent that dissolves oils, fragrances and actives then helps them spread evenly before vanishing to leave a weightless finish. Its quick dry time also aids products like setting sprays, toners and hair sprays by cutting down wait time and preventing residue.
The ingredient is widespread in cosmetics thanks to its low cost, plant origin and reliable performance, though some brands avoid high levels to cater to customers who prefer gentler formulas. Overall it is considered safe for topical use on intact skin, with dryness or irritation being the main concerns for sensitive types. As with any new skincare or makeup product, doing a small patch test first is a smart way to rule out unexpected reactions.