There are several ways to determine whether cosmetics contain alcohol:
Smell the odor: Cosmetics containing alcohol usually have a more obvious alcohol smell, while non-alcoholic cosmetics have a milder smell.
Check the ingredient list: If the words ethanol, denatured ethanol, etc. appear in the ingredient list, it means that it contains alcohol.
Observe the feeling of use: After use, the skin feels obviously cool and tight, which may contain alcohol.
Do a combustion experiment: Take a small amount of cosmetics and pour it on a metal sheet to ignite it. Those that can burn may contain alcohol.
Test with acid-base test paper: Use acid-base test paper to test. If the test paper changes color obviously, it may contain alcohol.
Test with your hands: Pour a little cosmetics on the cotton pad and wipe the palm of your hand. If you feel chilly, it contains alcohol.
Observe the foam: Shake the cosmetic bottle vigorously and observe the foam. If the bubbles produced are delicate and rich and last for a long time, it means that it does not contain alcohol; if the foam is large and disappears quickly, it means that it contains alcohol.
The role of alcohol in cosmetics:
Anti-bacterial: Alcohol has an antibacterial effect and can extend the shelf life of cosmetics.
As a solvent: Many organic compounds are more soluble in ethanol, such as perfumes and high-concentration salicylic acid products.
Astringent effect: Ethanol can make keratin astringent and is used in products that temporarily shrink pores.
Regulate skin feel: Ethanol brings a cooling feeling when it evaporates, which can reduce the sticky feeling.
Promote penetration: Helps other ingredients penetrate into the skin better.