What Is Sd Alcohol 38-B?
Sd Alcohol 38-B is a specially denatured form of ethyl alcohol that has been treated with small amounts of additives to make it unfit for drinking. Ethyl alcohol itself is usually produced by fermenting sugars from crops like corn, sugarcane or grains. After fermentation the liquid is distilled and then denaturants are mixed in to create Sd Alcohol 38-B, a grade approved for cosmetic use. Using denatured alcohol lets companies avoid beverage taxes while keeping the quick-drying and cleansing traits people expect from alcohol in beauty products.
Cosmetic makers turned to denatured alcohol in the early 20th century when they needed a cost-effective base that evaporated fast and helped formulas feel light. Over time Sd Alcohol grades were standardized so brands could pick the right strength and purity for each product. Today Sd Alcohol 38-B is common in facial toners, setting sprays, liquid foundations, aftershaves, hair styling sprays, spot treatments and certain peel-off or clay masks where a crisp, non-sticky finish is important.
Sd Alcohol 38-B’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare and haircare formulas Sd Alcohol 38-B serves a few practical roles that improve texture, performance and skin feel
- Astringent: Helps tighten the look of pores and remove surface oil which can give skin a fresher matte appearance especially useful in toners and acne-prone skin products.
- Solvent: Dissolves other ingredients such as plant extracts fragrances or film-forming resins ensuring they mix evenly and stay stable in a liquid base.
- Viscosity Controlling: Thins out thick mixtures so sprays and lotions spread easily and absorb fast without a heavy residue.
Who Can Use Sd Alcohol 38-B
Sd Alcohol 38-B tends to suit normal, combination and oily skin thanks to its quick evaporation and oil-reducing action. Dry or sensitive skin can find it too stripping because the rapid moisture loss may aggravate tightness or irritation, so people in those groups should look for gentler alternatives or formulas buffered with hydrating agents.
The ingredient is plant derived in most cosmetic supply chains and no animal by-products are added during denaturing, making it acceptable for vegans and vegetarians.
No specific data links Sd Alcohol 38-B to risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used topically at the low amounts found in cosmetics. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review new skincare with their doctor to be safe.
Sd Alcohol 38-B does not heighten photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn on its own. Standard daily sunscreen use is still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical Sd Alcohol 38-B differ. The effects below are possible yet uncommon when products are formulated and used correctly.
- Diminished skin hydration leading to temporary dryness or flaking
- Redness or irritation in people with existing sensitivity or dermatitis
- In rare cases contact dermatitis or allergic reaction presenting as rash or swelling
- In hair products potential cuticle dryness that can leave strands feeling brittle
If any persistent discomfort or visible reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 out of 5 — Sd Alcohol 38-B evaporates rapidly and does not leave behind residue that could block pores. Its primary action is to dissolve oils and reduce surface sebum, which means it is unlikely to promote comedone formation. For acne-prone or breakout-prone individuals this ingredient is generally considered safe as far as clogging potential goes.
Because it can be drying, skin that overproduces oil in response to dehydration might experience rebound shine if a formula relies too heavily on Sd Alcohol 38-B, so overall product balance matters.
Summary
Sd Alcohol 38-B functions mainly as an astringent, solvent and viscosity controller. It tightens the look of pores by sweeping away excess oil, dissolves otherwise tricky ingredients so formulas stay clear and uniform, and thins thick mixtures to help sprays, lotions and gels spread in a light fast-absorbing layer.
Thanks to these practical perks and its budget-friendly cost, Sd Alcohol 38-B remains popular in toners, setting sprays, foundations, aftershaves and hair styling products, especially where a quick-dry matte finish is key. That said some brands are dialing it back in ultra-hydrating or sensitive-skin lines to avoid potential dryness.
Topical use is considered low risk for most people when included at the levels typical in cosmetics. Still everyone’s skin is different so it is smart to patch test any new product containing Sd Alcohol 38-B before full use.