Isopropyl Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol is a volatile, water-miscible solvent widely used in personal care and household products. Cosmetics use it for fast-drying, degreasing, and sanitizing functions, but frequent exposure can increase perceived dryness and transient irritation.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A fast-drying solvent that degreases and sanitizes but can dry skin out.
Category
Cleansing, Oil Control
Type
Solvent

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Dries rapidly, leaving little residue and a fresh feel. Efficiently dissolves oils to reduce greasiness on skin or tools.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Often found in toners, cleansing pads, and hand sanitizers, and in fast-drying hair or body sprays.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

May sting or increase dryness, particularly at higher concentrations or with repeated application. Those with sensitive or barrier-impaired skin should use sparingly and follow with moisturizers. Avoid use on broken skin.

Is Isopropyl Alcohol a Good Ingredient?

Rated Fair because it evaporates quickly and effectively degreases, which helps quick-dry, oil-cutting formulas do their job, but frequent use can disrupt the skin's moisture balance. The risk of dryness and irritation is what limits its suitability for sensitive or compromised skin and keeps the rating in the middle.

Products with Isopropyl Alcohol

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