“Alcohol-free” on a skincare label means the product does not contain ethanol or drying alcohols—like alcohol denat., SD alcohol, or isopropyl alcohol—

 

“Alcohol-free” on a skincare label means the product does not contain ethanol or drying alcohols—like alcohol denat., SD alcohol, or isopropyl alcohol—which can strip the skin’s natural oils and disrupt the barrier.

However, here’s what you should know:

✅ What it doesn't include:

• Ethanol (ethyl alcohol)

• Denatured alcohol

• SD alcohol 40

• Isopropyl alcohol

These types can be drying, irritating, and are often used to help products feel lighter or dry quickly.

🤔 What it can still include:

• Fatty alcohols like cetyl, stearyl, or cetearyl alcohol

  • These are hydrating, non-irritating, and used as emollients or thickeners.

  • Totally safe and even beneficial for dry or sensitive skin.

🔍 So, the label “alcohol-free” doesn’t mean all types of alcohol are absent—just the potentially harsh ones.