What Is Sd Alcohol 23-A?
Sd Alcohol 23-A is a specially denatured form of ethyl alcohol. By adding a tiny amount of a bittering agent, manufacturers make it unfit for drinking while leaving its performance in cosmetics unchanged. The alcohol itself is usually obtained by fermenting and distilling plant sugars from sources such as corn, sugarcane or grain. Once distilled, it is mixed with the denaturant and filtered to cosmetic-grade purity.
Fast evaporating alcohols began finding favor in beauty formulas in the early 1900s, when chemists noticed they could deliver light textures impossible with oils alone. Over time the U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau set up specific “SD” categories to spell out which denaturants were allowed. Sd Alcohol 23-A became a common choice because it is easy to produce, cost friendly and consistent in quality.
Today you will see Sd Alcohol 23-A in an array of products that must feel weightless or dry quickly. Typical placements include facial toners, clarifying masks, setting sprays, hair styling sprays, antiperspirants, oil-free moisturizers, spot treatments and some fast-absorbing hand sanitizing gels.
Sd Alcohol 23-A’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators lean on Sd Alcohol 23-A for several practical reasons
- Astringent: Helps tighten the look of pores, gives an immediate clean sensation and can reduce surface oil for a matte finish
- Solvent: Efficiently dissolves fragrance oils, botanical extracts and film formers so they blend evenly and stay stable in the final product
- Viscosity Controlling: Lowers thickness to create lightweight sprays or quick-dry lotions that spread easily and leave minimal residue
Who Can Use Sd Alcohol 23-A
Sd Alcohol 23-A is generally best suited for normal, combination or oily skin thanks to its quick-drying feel and oil-cutting ability. People with very dry, sensitive or compromised skin may find it too stripping because the rapid evaporation can remove natural moisture and disturb the skin’s barrier.
The alcohol is fermented from plant sugars and contains no animal-derived ingredients, so it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly.
Current safety data show no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Sd Alcohol 23-A is used topically in cosmetic amounts. Absorption through intact skin is minimal, yet this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all skincare choices with a doctor to be safe.
Sd Alcohol 23-A itself does not increase photosensitivity. However lightweight formulas that rely on it may also include actives like AHAs or retinoids that do, so daily sunscreen is still recommended.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to Sd Alcohol 23-A vary per individual. The points below list potential, not guaranteed, reactions. In well-formulated products most users experience none of these issues.
- Dryness or tightness
- Redness or irritation on sensitive skin
- Stinging when applied to freshly exfoliated or broken skin
- Flakiness or rough texture from repeated overuse
- Reactive oiliness as skin overcompensates for moisture loss
- Throat or nasal irritation if large aerosol clouds are inhaled
If you notice any of the above discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Sd Alcohol 23-A is highly volatile and evaporates almost as soon as it is applied, so it does not linger on the skin long enough to mix with sebum or block pores. For that reason it is considered non-comedogenic.
In practical terms this means the ingredient is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. However extremely dry skin can react by producing more oil after repeated exposure which may indirectly influence congestion in some users.
Summary
Sd Alcohol 23-A acts as an astringent, solvent and viscosity controller. It tightens the feel of skin for an instant refreshed finish, dissolves actives so formulas stay clear and uniform, and thins mixtures to create quick-dry sprays or lotions that feel weightless.
Thanks to its low cost, consistent quality and ability to deliver feather-light textures it is one of the most popular alcohols in modern haircare, skincare and makeup.
Current research shows it is safe for topical use in cosmetic amounts, though people with very dry or sensitive skin may prefer to limit exposure. Whenever you try a new product that contains Sd Alcohol 23-A it is wise to run a small patch test first to ensure your skin is happy with the overall formula.