You must have come across a lot of promotional campaigns claiming to sell alcohol-free cosmetics and skincare products. Let me tell you why alcohols are controversial and why you need to avoid them.
Alcohols in cosmetics and skincare products can be categorized as good and bad alcohols:
Bad alcohols: means the drying alcohol. These alcohols are volatile in nature and usually found in products designed for oily skin types. Their use is to get non-greasy, weightless, and quick-drying looks. They are found in different forms e.g SD alcohol, denatured alcohol, and isopropyl alcohol.
Such alcohols are bad for every skin type. Using such products can result in extremely dry skin. It can alter the natural barrier and microbiome of the skin. As a result, skin is weakened. It will also make oily skin worse and aggravate acne and breakouts.
Good alcohols: are referred to as fatty alcohols. These alcohols are non-irritating and very beneficial for the skin. They are perfect for dry skin types. Also, in a controlled amount, they are good for oily skin too. You can find them as cetyl alcohols, stearyl alcohols, etc.
So alcohols as a whole are not bad for your skin. You need to check the label before buying anything. It is best to consult your pharmacist while choosing a new product.
Also Read: Is it safe to wax your face?
Dr. Iqra Mubashar is a registered Pharmacist originally from Pakistan, Lahore. She has earned her pharmacy degree from the University of veterinary and animal sciences, Lahore. She has completed her internship as a trainee from Children hospital, Lahore. She has completed her research work in clinical pharmacy and pharmaceutics. She has worked as a healthcare documentation head in Al-Qasim enterprises, Islamabad. She has specialized in prescription handling, drugs information, literature research, patient counseling and pharmaceutical care plans. Her research work on coronavirus is under publication
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