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Is Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol) Safe? What You Need to Know

6/10

Safety Score

Concern Level: moderate

Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol) has moderate safety concerns. Consider alternatives where possible, especially for vulnerable populations.

Common uses: hand sanitizer, toners, perfume, mouthwash

What Is Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol)?

A common solvent and antiseptic. Effective hand sanitizer at 60-80% concentration but drying to skin with regular use.

Commonly found in: hand sanitizer, toners, perfume, mouthwash

Safety Research & Evidence

A common solvent and antiseptic. Effective hand sanitizer at 60-80% concentration but drying to skin with regular use.

Regulatory status: FDA OTC monograph for antiseptic; GRAS in cosmetics

Health Concerns

skin drying

Evidence: Moderate

Research indicates skin drying may be associated with exposure to Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol). Particularly concerning for children (ingestion), those with dry skin.

disrupts skin barrier

Evidence: Moderate

Research indicates disrupts skin barrier may be associated with exposure to Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol). Particularly concerning for children (ingestion), those with dry skin.

toxic if ingested by children

Evidence: Moderate

Research indicates toxic if ingested by children may be associated with exposure to Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol). Particularly concerning for children (ingestion), those with dry skin.

Vulnerable Populations

Extra caution recommended for: children (ingestion), those with dry skin

Safer Alternatives

AlternativeSafety Score
Cetyl Alcohol8/10

How to Avoid Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol)

  1. Read ingredient labels carefully for "Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol)" or its chemical synonyms
  2. Choose products with third-party certifications (EWG Verified, Made Safe)
  3. Consider alternatives like Cetyl Alcohol
  4. Check the EWG Skin Deep database for product ratings
  5. Look for "Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol)-free" labels on product packaging

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol) safe for babies?

No, we recommend avoiding Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol) in products used on or around babies due to their developing systems.

What are the safest alternatives to Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol)?

Safer alternatives include Cetyl Alcohol (safety score: 8/10).

Is Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol) banned in other countries?

Regulatory status: FDA OTC monograph for antiseptic; GRAS in cosmetics

How do I know if my product contains Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol)?

Check the full ingredient list on the product label. Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol) may also appear under different chemical names. Using apps like EWG Healthy Living or Think Dirty can help identify it.

Related Safety Guides

References

  1. Menegueti MG et al. (2019). Effect of ethanol-based hand sanitizers on skin barrier PMID: 27723926