Alcohol in cosmetics composition. Dispelling the myths
Everyone is well aware that if cosmetic product composition includes alcohol, product has not only antiseptic properties, but also dries heavily. Another matter means with glycerin. This substance is known to everyone as the main moisturizing component of all creams, soaps, etc. However, it is glycerol that is the representative of organic triatomic alcohols. Did not know? In this article, we’ll figure out whether spirits are so terrible and why it is added to cosmetics.
Alcohols: why it is added into cosmetics composition
Modern cosmetics due to the inclusion of alcohols have a longer shelf life, since this component prevents development of pathogenic microflora, killing it, and prolongs shelf life. Alcohols also allow a good mix of several substances, preventing their separation into fractions. They are good fixer of aromas and cosmetic product pH balance. In addition, alcohols are kind of conductors. They help to penetrate deeper into skin with the useful components of remedy.
Kinds of alcohols in cosmetics
In creams, tonics, lotions and soaps, the following types of alcohols are added:
- simple (ethanol, methanol, isopropyl alcohol);
- aromatic (benzyl, cinnamyl alcohol);
- fatty (lauryl, caprylic, stearyl, etc.)
All of these types have very different properties and are used for certain purposes. Simple alcohols are added as a preservative, solvent, shrinkage substance and improving absorption process. Aromatic also protects product well from bacteria, but can also be an aromatic additive. Fatty alcohols are thickeners, emulsifiers and emollients of creams and lotions.
Not every Alcohol – is that alcohol
For people with sensitive and dry skin it is better not to purchase cosmetics with a content of simple alcohols more than 5%. Otherwise, this component can dry and irritate skin, violate its natural barrier, aggravate the condition of acne. The safer of this group of alcohols is denatured alcohol in combination with other ingredients. Aromatic alcohols are safe only if in a small concentration.
Fatty alcohols soften skin, slowing the evaporation of moisture from its surface. They are able to restore its structure and reduce freezing temperature of cosmetics. The most useful are: panthenol (alcohol form of pantothenic acid), propylene glycol, glycerin, lauryl laurate, phytosphingosine.
