Moisturizers are an important part of our skincare routine. Be it men or women, everyone uses moisturizers to keep their skin soft and hydrated. However, very few people know that many skincare products, including moisturizers, contain alcohol. So, is this alcohol safe for your skin? Let's find out.
According to Dr. Vijay Singhal, Senior Consultant (Dermatologist) at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, Delhi, alcohol is commonly used in moisturizers for a few specific reasons. Firstly, alcohol helps make the moisturizer lighter and more absorbent, so it doesn't feel heavy on the skin.
Cetearyl alcohol is a type of fatty alcohol found in skin lotions, creams, and hair products, reports Healthline. It is a mixture of cetyl and stearyl alcohol, which is derived from natural sources like coconut and palm oil or prepared in a lab. Cetearyl alcohol is considered safe for skin and hair and does not dry out the skin.
Dr. Vijay Singhal explains that there are many reasons behind using alcohol in moisturizers. Alcohol is used to increase the shelf life of the product and prevent microbial activity. However, more alcohol is also used to reduce the greasiness of the moisturizer and make it lighter.
The amount of alcohol in moisturizers can usually range from 1% to 10%. Cetearyl alcohol is used in most skincare products. The amount depends on the type of alcohol, but Cetearyl alcohol is considered less harmful to the skin.
Alcohol helps refresh the skin and aids in removing excess oil and dirt. It is light and non-greasy, allowing moisturizers to absorb quickly. Alcohol also helps to open up the top layer of skin, increasing the effectiveness of other active ingredients.
Although alcohol has benefits, it can also have some disadvantages. Too much alcohol can remove the skin's natural moisture, leaving the skin dry and rough. Additionally, prolonged use of alcohol-containing products can damage the skin's protective layer, negatively affecting the overall health of the skin.
According to Dr. Singhal, you should choose a moisturizer based on your skin needs. If you have sensitive skin or are facing any particular problem, it is best to consult a dermatologist. This way, you can choose the most appropriate moisturizer for you and take proper care of your skin.
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