Updated on 16 July 2024 By: Devane Sharma
Content:
Alcohol in Skincare and Haircare
Fatty Alcohols vs. Simple Alcohols
Why Use Fatty Alcohols in Skincare?
What Are Fatty Alcohols Made From?
Can Fatty Alcohols Cause Acne?
Musim Mas Fatty Alcohols for Skincare
Alcohol in Skincare and Haircare- Are They All the Same?
Alcohols in beauty and personal care products are usually thought of as ingredients that are not friendly. However, it’s essential to recognize that not all alcohols are the same.
The bad rep for alcohol in skincare is aimed mainly at simple alcohols that evaporate rapidly, such as ethanol or ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, benzyl alcohol, and denatured alcohol. Fatty alcohols are very different, and some types might be good for skin and hair. What are fatty alcohols, why are they in skincare, and are they bad for you?
What Are Fatty Alcohols, and How Are They Different From Simple Alcohols?
Fatty alcohols and simple alcohols differ mainly in their chemical structure and their effects on the skin.
Fatty alcohols, which may come from natural and synthetic sources, have long hydrocarbon chains. They are waxy solids or thick liquids that act as emollients, thickeners, and emulsifiers in skincare products. They provide moisturizing and stabilizing benefits without irritating the skin.
In contrast, simple alcohols like ethyl alcohol have low molecular weight, and short carbon chains are volatile liquids that evaporate quickly. Simple alcohols can be used as antimicrobial agents where they are helpful in products like hand sanitizer to kill bacteria, or as solvents and preservatives. However, they aren’t great for other applications like face cream and shampoo as they might dry out skin and hair.
What Are the Different Types of Fatty Alcohols?
Fatty alcohols can vary in the length of their carbon chains, typically from 8-carbon (C8) in short-chain alcohols to 18-carbon (C18) in long-chain alcohols.
Short-chain fatty alcohols, which are typically in the C8 to C12 range, include lauryl alcohol (C12) and octanol alcohol (C8). Long-chain fatty alcohols, on the other hand, range from C14 to C18. Examples include myristyl alcohol (C14), cetyl alcohol (C16), and stearyl alcohol (C18).
Why Are Fatty Alcohols Used in Skincare?
Fatty alcohols serve several functions in skincare. Some common properties include:
- Emulsifier: Combines the oil-water mixtures in lotions, moisturizers, and creams.
- Emollient: Imparts a softening feeling on the skin by flattening skin cells and locking moisture in.
- Thickener: Add thickness and body to skincare products, giving them a rich and luxurious feel.
- Surfactants: They can help cleanse by removing dirt, oil, and impurities.
- Stabilizer: Fatty alcohols can help stabilize formulations, preventing them from separating or spoiling.
By locking moisture in, the emollient function also supports the natural lipid barrier of skin and hair. This keeps hair and skin feeling healthier and more moisturized.
What Are Fatty Alcohols Made From?
Fatty alcohols are usually made from natural fats and oils, which can be obtained from plant and animal sources. Some common sources include:
Plant Oils: Oils extracted from plants such as coconut, palm, and palm kernel are rich in fatty acids that can be converted to fatty alcohols.
Animal Fats: Animal fats, such as cow tallow, pig lard, or beeswax, contain fatty acids that can also be used to produce fatty alcohols.
Palm oil is used in up to 70% of cosmetics products [1]. It’s an essential building block for the manufacture of more than a thousand chemical compounds, including those that power the cosmetics and skincare industry. These include fatty alcohols and esters such as isopropyl palmitate, which help enhance the feel and performance of other ingredients. Palm oil’s prevalence stems from its being one of the most cost-effective sources of fats.
Can Fatty Alcohols Cause Acne or Other Skin Problems?
Fatty alcohols in skincare are non-comedogenic, non-sensitizing, and suitable for all skin types. They won’t leave skin irritated, including those with sensitive or acne-prone skin, and may improve skin’s feel and texture. The risk of fatty alcohols causing acne or skin issues is relatively low compared to other skincare ingredients. However, if you have particularly sensitive skin or a known sensitivity to fatty alcohols, it’s advisable to patch-test products containing them before regular use or to consult a dermatologist.
Musim Mas Fatty Alcohol Range for Skincare
Musim Mas is a leading supplier of fatty alcohols to cosmetics, skincare, and haircare producers. The Group produces high-quality fatty alcohols with chain lengths ranging from C8 to C18. The Group’s production is also underpinned by its sustainability commitments, including No Deforestation, Peat and Exploitation (NDPE).
References:
[1]:https://www.mpoc.org.my/the-role-of-palm-oil-in-cosmetics-products/
