What Is Sd Alcohol 38-C?
Sd Alcohol 38-C is a specific grade of denatured ethyl alcohol. At its core it is the same ethanol found in beverages, but it has been treated with a small amount of denaturant that makes it unfit for drinking yet perfectly suited for cosmetic use. The “38” refers to the formula’s position on the United States denatured alcohol schedule while the “C” points to the exact combination of denaturants used, typically tert-butyl alcohol along with a bittering agent. The result is a clear, fast-evaporating liquid with a mild odor.
Denatured alcohol has been used in personal care since the early 1900s when formulators realized its ability to dissolve oils and help lotions dry faster. Today Sd Alcohol 38-C is produced by fermenting plant sugars, distilling the ethanol then blending in the approved denaturants. Because the process uses renewable crops such as corn or sugarcane many brands market it as a plant-derived solvent.
You will most often spot Sd Alcohol 38-C in toners, facial mists, setting sprays, hair sprays, liquid or gel-based hand sanitizers, quick-dry nail products and certain lightweight moisturizers where a crisp non-greasy feel is desired.
Sd Alcohol 38-C’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators reach for Sd Alcohol 38-C when they need a multi-purpose helper that boosts performance without weighing a product down.
- Astringent: Provides a quick tightening sensation that can temporarily minimize the look of enlarged pores and leave skin feeling refreshed
- Solvent: Effortlessly dissolves oils, resins and fragrance ingredients allowing for clear stable formulas while helping active ingredients spread evenly across the skin or hair
- Viscosity Controlling: Thins down heavy emulsions or gels so the finished product feels light absorbs quickly and sprays or pumps with ease
Who Can Use Sd Alcohol 38-C
Sd Alcohol 38-C works best for normal, combination or oily skin because its quick evaporation and oil-dissolving nature leave a fresh non-greasy finish. Those with very dry or sensitized skin may find that frequent exposure strips away moisture which can lead to tightness or flaking, especially if the rest of the formula lacks replenishing ingredients.
The ethanol is sourced from plants and the denaturants are synthetic so the ingredient itself is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
No research suggests that Sd Alcohol 38-C poses a specific risk during pregnancy or breastfeeding when used topically in cosmetics. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should clear all personal care products with a healthcare professional just to be safe.
Sd Alcohol 38-C is not known to increase photosensitivity, meaning it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Standard sun protection habits are still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Sd Alcohol 38-C differ from person to person. The points below describe potential reactions, yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Dryness or tightness due to rapid evaporation of surface moisture
- Stinging or burning on compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Redness or irritation in individuals with eczema, rosacea or other inflammatory conditions
- Contact dermatitis or allergic reaction to the denaturants used
- Eye or mucous membrane irritation if product is applied too close to these areas
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Sd Alcohol 38-C flashes off the skin within seconds and leaves no oily or waxy residue that could block pores. Because it is a lightweight volatile liquid the chances of it physically clogging follicles are virtually zero, earning it a solid non-comedogenic score.
This makes Sd Alcohol 38-C generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts, provided the rest of the formula is also low in pore-clogging ingredients.
Keep in mind that excessive dryness from overuse can sometimes trigger rebound oil production in certain individuals, which could indirectly worsen breakouts. Balancing Sd Alcohol 38-C with soothing humectants and emollients helps avoid that scenario.
Summary
Sd Alcohol 38-C acts as an astringent, solvent and viscosity controller. Its rapid evaporation gives skin and hair a clean refreshed feel, it dissolves oils and resins so actives disperse evenly and it thins heavy formulas for a lighter texture and smooth spray delivery.
The ingredient is popular in toners, mists, setting sprays, hair sprays and quick-dry products because it enhances performance without adding weight. While some brands shy away from high alcohol content, many still rely on Sd Alcohol 38-C for its unmatched quick-dry finish.
Topical use of Sd Alcohol 38-C is considered safe for the vast majority of consumers when included at normal cosmetic concentrations. As with any new product though it is wise to do a quick patch test to rule out sensitivity before full-face or widespread application.