Ingredient · Updated
Alcohol
Found in 25 productsSee all
Biom Hand Sanitizing Refill Eucalyptus Chill 
Guru Nanda Oxyburst Whitening Mouthwash Alcohol & Fluoride Free plastic bottle 
Zimba Teeth Whitening Strips Enamel Safe Vegan Teeth Whitener Mint 
Guru Nanda premium whitening strips Express 
Gain OXI Original 
AMBIEN TAIR GOOD HOME product made in mexico 
Tide Original Liquid Laundry Detergent 100 Loads 
YSL Y Eau de Parfum What is Alcohol?
Alcohol, often referred to by its chemical name ethanol, is a volatile and colorless liquid. Produced through the fermentation of sugars by yeast, it is commonly found in alcoholic beverages, as well as various household and personal care products.
In product formulations, alcohol is used for its antiseptic properties and as a solvent. In cosmetics like fragrances, it helps dissolve ingredients. In mouthwash, it acts to kill germs. Health evidence suggests moderate consumption in beverages can have both positive and negative effects, but the evidence is mixed for non-consumable products.
When you see alcohol on a label, it's typically serving as a solvent, preservative, or antiseptic. It is not to be confused with fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol, which are common in skincare products.
Commonly found in: Fragrances, Mouthwash, Whitening products, Household cleaners, Hand sanitizers
What to watch
- High concentrations can cause skin dryness or irritation.
- May be flammable, requiring careful storage and usage.
Benefits
- Effective antiseptic, helping to reduce or eliminate bacteria.
- Acts as a solvent to incorporate a range of ingredients within formulations.
Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices.
Studies show alcohol is effective as a germicide, but excessive external use can lead to skin issues.
Alcohol is not derived from animal sources and is generally considered vegan-friendly.
Sources: Alcohol: GRAS Status
Scout's take
Ethanol-based solvent carrier (~80% of formula). Drying to skin but otherwise inert.
The case against
Can cause skin dryness and irritation with prolonged exposure.
from the analysis of Tide Original Liquid Laundry Detergent 100 Loads · echoed in 1 other analysisThe flammability of alcohol poses a fire risk if not stored or used properly.
from the analysis of AMBIEN TAIR GOOD HOME product made in mexicoThe case for
Alcohol can effectively sanitize surfaces and evaporates quickly, leaving no residue.
from the analysis of AMBIEN TAIR GOOD HOME product made in mexicoHelps dissolve other ingredients and can enhance cleaning efficacy.
from the analysis of Tide Original Liquid Laundry Detergent 100 LoadsEnhances cleaning power and aids in quick drying of the product.
from the analysis of Gain OXI OriginalMore from Scout's analyses
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
from the analysis of Guru Nanda Oxyburst Whitening Mouthwash Alcohol & Fluoride Free plastic bottleAlcohol is commonly used as a base in cleaning products due to its ability to dissolve oils and kill bacteria. It is highly flammable and should be handled with care. The specific type of alcohol is undisclosed, which limits a full assessment.
from the analysis of AMBIEN TAIR GOOD HOME product made in mexicoAlcohol acts as a solvent and helps in the evaporation of the product. It can enhance the cleaning power of the formulation. It is generally safe in cleaning products.
from the analysis of Gain OXI OriginalAll 25 products with Alcohol
+ 1 more products in the Scout app
Where Alcohol shows up
- Fragrances 18 products
- Whitening 2 products
- Laundry 2 products
- Hand Sanitizer 1 product
- Mouthwash 1 product
- Air Fresheners 1 product
Higher-scoring picks without Alcohol
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Alcohol, scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.