Ethanol: what it is in skincare
⏱ 1 min read
⚡ Quick answer: A simple alcohol that helps thin formulas and speed drying but can dry out skin over time.
A simple alcohol that helps thin formulas and speed drying but can dry out skin over time.
What it does
Function: solvent (drying alcohol). Solvents dissolve and carry other ingredients. Some lightweight alcohols also give a fast-absorbing finish (a sensitivity point for some skin).
Heads-up flags
- alcohol-drying
- sensitive-skin-caution
How to spot it on a label
On a Korean product's INCI list, look for Ethanol. Ingredients are listed high-to-low by amount, so its position hints at how much is in the formula. See all solvents →
Explore more K-beauty guides → ⏭ Up next🧪 SD Alcohol 40-B: what it is in skincare✍️ 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.