Not All Alcohols Are Created Equal: The Surprising Truth About Alcohol In Skincare

If you’ve ever scanned the ingredients on your skincare products and immediately put them back because you spotted “alcohol,” you’re not alone. For those of us with dry or sensitive skin, “alcohol” often sets off alarm bells—and for good reason.

Certain alcohols can be drying, irritating, and just plain harsh. But here’s the twist: not all alcohols are bad for your skin. In fact, some are downright amazing—especially if you’re looking to keep your skin soft, hydrated, and smooth. Let’s break it down.

The Drying Villains: What To Avoid

When skincare experts caution against alcohol, they’re usually talking about drying alcohols like:

• Ethyl alcohol (ethanol)
• Denatured alcohol
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Benzyl alcohol (in high amounts)

These alcohols are often used to give products a fast-drying, lightweight feel—but at a price. They can strip away your skin’s natural oils, compromise your moisture barrier, and leave your skin tight, flaky, and more prone to irritation. Not fun, especially if you’re already battling dryness.

The Unsung Heroes: Fatty Alcohols

Now, here’s where things get interesting. There’s an entirely different category called fatty alcohols, and they are actually beneficial for your skin—especially if it tends to be dry.

Some of the good guys include:
• Cetyl alcohol
• Stearyl alcohol
• Cetearyl alcohol
• Behenyl alcohol

These naturally derived ingredients (often from coconut or palm oil) are used as emollients and emulsifiers. That means they:

• Help soften and smooth the skin
• Lock in moisture by creating a protective barrier
• Give skincare products a creamy, luxurious texture
• Prevent products from separating

In short, they do all the good things that help dry skin thrive—without the irritation.

So… Should You Avoid Alcohol in Skincare?

The answer is: only the drying kinds. When reading labels, look past the scary “alcohol” name and dig deeper. If a product contains fatty alcohols, that’s actually a good sign—especially if you’re seeking long-lasting hydration and a silky, soothing experience for your skin.

At Brody Brielle, we carefully formulate our products to be deeply hydrating, non-irritating, and free of the harsh alcohols that strip your skin. When we use alcohols, they're the fatty, skin-loving kind—the kind your dry skin will thank you for.

Final Takeaway:
Not all alcohols are created equal. If you’ve been avoiding all alcohols out of fear, it’s time to rethink that. Choose wisely, and your skin will reap the benefits.