What Is Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-F?
Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-F is ethyl alcohol that has been “denatured,” meaning it has additives that make it unsuitable for drinking but still useful for cosmetic work. In this case the base ethanol is combined with small amounts of ingredients like thymol, chlorothymol, menthol, boric acid, polysorbate-80, sometimes zinc chloride and hydrochloric acid. These additives change the taste and smell so the alcohol is not taxed or regulated as a beverage yet keeps its cleaning and dissolving power.
The ethanol itself usually comes from fermented plant sources such as corn, beet or sugarcane. After fermentation the alcohol is distilled to raise its purity, then the denaturants listed above are blended in following rules set by the US Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (27 CFR 21). This creates a stable liquid that can be shipped to cosmetic makers without beverage regulations.
Denatured alcohol has appeared in personal care since the early 1900s because it dries fast and helps formulas feel light. The 38-F version was developed to give brands a specific mix that balances performance with safety requirements.
You will see Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-F in facial toners, setting sprays, fragrances, hand cleansers, hair styling sprays, liquid foundations, quick dry nail products and spot-treatment gels where a fast-evaporating base is needed.
Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-F’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In cosmetics this ingredient serves a single but important role.
Solvent: It dissolves oils, resins and active ingredients so they blend evenly, then flashes off the skin leaving the beneficial ingredients behind. This helps products dry quickly, feel light and stay stable over time.
Who Can Use Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-F
This fast-evaporating alcohol is generally fine for normal, combination and oily skin since it leaves no heavy residue. Dry or sensitive skin may find it too dehydrating because it pulls water from the surface as it evaporates, which can heighten tightness and irritation in those skin types.
The ingredient is plant derived and the added denaturants are synthetic or mineral based, so products using it are typically suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Brands that source ethanol from animal by-products are rare but you can check labels if you follow a strict lifestyle.
Pregnant or breastfeeding users can normally use cosmetics that include this form of denatured alcohol because it sits on the skin for a short time and is not absorbed in large amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should confirm all skincare choices with a doctor to be extra sure.
Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-F does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it is not considered photosensitizing. It is also odorless once the menthol and thymol notes evaporate so it will not interfere with fragrance layers.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-F differ from person to person. The points below list potential issues, but most users will not encounter them when the ingredient is formulated at normal cosmetic levels.
- Dryness or tightness – quick evaporation can draw moisture from the skin surface, especially in low humidity
- Stinging or burning – freshly exfoliated or compromised skin may feel a brief sting when alcohol contacts open micro-cuts
- Redness or irritation – sensitive skin can react to menthol or thymol in the denaturant blend
- Flaking – prolonged use on already dry areas may lead to mild peeling as the skin struggles to stay hydrated
- Contact dermatitis – rare allergic responses to boric acid, polysorbate-80 or zinc chloride can cause rash or swelling
If you notice any of these effects stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-F is a lightweight liquid that evaporates almost as soon as it is spread, leaving no residue to block pores. Because it contains no oils, waxes or fatty acids—common culprits behind clogged pores—it earns a solid 0 on the comedogenic scale.
That means it is generally safe for skin prone to acne or breakouts. The only caveat is that its quick-drying nature can strip moisture, which in some people may trigger compensatory oil production. This is a secondary effect rather than a direct pore-clogging issue and can usually be balanced with a good moisturizer.
One extra point worth noting is that denatured alcohol can increase the penetration of other ingredients applied afterward. If those later ingredients are comedogenic, overall pore congestion risk can rise even though the alcohol itself remains a 0.
Summary
Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-F is used in cosmetics as a fast-evaporating solvent. It dissolves actives, resins and fragrances so formulas stay uniform, then flashes off to leave a weightless finish. This makes it invaluable in toners, setting sprays, hair mists and quick-dry products where a fresh feel is key.
Its popularity is steady rather than flashy. Brands reach for it when they need quick dry time at a budget-friendly price, but some newer lines opt for gentler alternatives to appeal to consumers avoiding alcohols.
Overall safety is high when products are used as directed. Irritation and dryness are the main concerns, largely for sensitive or very dry skin types. Patch testing any new product containing Alcohol Denat. Sd Alcohol 38-F is a smart habit to catch individual sensitivities before full-face use.