Isopropyl Alcohol

Updated

Propan-2-ol, isopropanol

Purpose

Also known as rubbing alcohol, this type of alcohol is known to be drying/sensitizing to skin when listed among the main ingredients in a formula.

Rating

WORST

Category

INCI Purpose

ANTIFOAMING, PERFUMING, SOLVENT, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Risks

Alcohol — Can be drying and irritating, especially for sensitive skin

Alternative Names

Hair Profile

Functions

Drying Alcohol

Role

Strips acid mantle; causes scalp irritation and severe cuticle dehydration. Found at cheap styling sprays, some dry shampoos.

At a Glance

Article

Isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, is known to be drying/sensitizing to skin when listed among the main ingredients (higher up on the ingredient list); tiny amounts in an otherwise good formula aren’t a problem. In addition to being drying and sensitizing, this type of alcohol can disrupt skin’s surface layers.

See: Alcohol

References