Solvents in skincare — what they do
⏱ 1 min read
⚡ Quick answer: Solvents dissolve and carry other ingredients. Some lightweight alcohols also give a fast-absorbing finish (a sensitivity point for some skin).
Solvents dissolve and carry other ingredients. Some lightweight alcohols also give a fast-absorbing finish (a sensitivity point for some skin).
5 solvents in the K-beauty INCI decoder
- Denatured Alcohol — A fast-evaporating alcohol that helps products feel light but can be drying with frequent use.
- Ethanol — A simple alcohol that helps thin formulas and speed drying but can dry out skin over time.
- SD Alcohol 40-B — A specially denatured alcohol that helps products feel weightless but can be drying for some skin.
- Water — The base most products are built on; carries and dissolves other ingredients.
- Water (Aqua) — The base most products are built on; carries and dissolves other ingredients.
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Explore more K-beauty guides → ⏭ Up next🔬 Other functional ingredients in skincare — what they do✍️ Written & reviewed by the KoreaPlus Editorial team — dermatologist-informed, cosmetic-science researched & source-cited. Last reviewed: 2026-08-08.
General educational information using cosmetic structure-function wording — not medical advice. Always patch-test new actives. © KoreaPlus.