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Solvents in cosmetics:
What you need to know
Solvents are indispensable components of many cosmetic products. They ensure that active ingredients are evenly distributed and a pleasant consistency is created. Solvents are often viewed critically because some of them can have an irritating effect. However, the correct selection and dosage ensure the stability and effectiveness of cosmetic formulations.
In this article, you will learn which solvents are used in cosmetics, their functions and which solvents are particularly important. We will introduce you to 30 common solvents.
Types of solvents and their functions
1. Water (Aqua)
The most commonly used solvent in cosmetics is water. It is the basis of many products because it acts as a universal solvent for many ingredients. Water is not only important for dilution, but also helps moisturize the skin. It helps to evenly distribute active ingredients and ensures that products such as creams and lotions have the right consistency.
2. Alcohol
Alcohols such as ethanol and isopropyl alcohol are powerful solvents commonly used in perfumes, deodorants and cleaning products. They evaporate quickly, which has a cooling effect on the skin. However, in high concentrations they can have a drying effect and should therefore be used with caution in skin care products.
3. Glycole
Glycols, such as propylene glycol and butylene glycol, are versatile solvents that are often used in moisturizing products. They are hygroscopic, meaning they can absorb moisture from the air and release it to the skin, while also helping to distribute other active ingredients.
4. Silicone-based solvents
Silicone-based solvents such as cyclopentasiloxane and dimethicone are often used in skin and hair care products. They evaporate quickly and leave a smooth, silky feel on the skin. These solvents are especially popular in hair care products because they help control frizz and add shine to the hair without weighing it down.
5. Oil-based solvents
Oil-based solvents such as isododecane and caprylic/capric triglyceride are mainly found in rich creams and body oils. They dissolve fat-soluble ingredients such as vitamins and vegetable oils and ensure that they are evenly distributed on the skin. Oil-based solvents are particularly nourishing and are often used in products for dry skin.
Are solvents in cosmetics safe?
Solvents are essential in cosmetics to ensure the desired consistency and stability of products. However, some solvents, particularly alcohols and certain silicones, have been criticized because they can dry out or irritate the skin when used in high concentrations. In most cases, however, solvents are used in small, safe doses, so they do not have any negative effects on the skin.
Natural solvents such as vegetable oils and glycerin offer a skin-friendly alternative to synthetic solvents. Many manufacturers now rely on these solutions to offer products that are both effective and gentle on the skin.
Solvents and their importance for the formulation
Depending on the product and skin type, different solvents must be used. Lighter solvents such as water and glycols are common in water-based products such as toners or gel creams, while oil-based solvents dominate in rich moisturizers and body butters. The choice of solvent also influences the feel of the skin - water-based products are quickly absorbed, while oil-based products leave a protective layer.
Future of Solvents in Cosmetics
The cosmetics industry is constantly developing new solvents that are not only effective, but also environmentally friendly and gentle on the skin. With the growing trend towards natural and organic products, the search for natural solvents that can replace synthetic alternatives is becoming increasingly intense. Plant extracts, biotechnologically produced solvents and sustainable alternatives will play a greater role in the future to ensure the balance between effectiveness and skin compatibility.
| Designation | INCI Name | application area | effect on the body |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acetone | Acetone | nail polish remover | Dissolves paints, evaporates quickly |
| Butan-1-ol | Butan-1-ol | Deodorants, Perfumes | solvent for essential oils |
| Butylacetat | Butyl Acetate | nail polishes, deodorants | Dissolves varnishes, moisturizing |
| Butylenglykol | Butylene Glycol | skin care, shampoos | Moisturizing, protective |
| Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride | Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride | skin care products | Moisturizing, soluble for active ingredients |
| Cetylalkohol | Cetyl Alcohol | creams, soaps | Softening, dissolves oils |
| Cetylalkohol | Cetyl Alcohol | creams, soaps | Softening, dissolves oils |
| Diethylenglykol | Diethylene Glycol | creams, lotions | solvents for active ingredients |
| Dimethylsulfoxid | Dimethyl Sulfoxide | Medical creams | Permeable, soluble for active ingredients |
| Dipropylen Glycol | Dipropylene Glycol | moisturizers, deodorants | Moisturizing, stabilizing |
| Ethanol | Alcohol | perfumes, hair care products | Evaporates quickly, cooling |
| ethyl acetate | Ethyl Acetate | nail polish, nail polish remover | Dissolves paints, evaporates quickly |
| Ethylenglykol | Ethylene Glycol | creams, lotions | Moisturizing, dissolves water and fats |
| Glycerin | Glycerin | skin creams, soaps | Moisturizing, improves skin elasticity |
| Hexylen Glycol | Hexylene Glycol | skin care products | Moisturizing, stabilizing |
| Isobutanol | Isobutanol | hair care products | Dissolves oils and polymers |
| Unity | Isododecane | hair and skin care products | Dissolves oils, leaves no greasy feeling |
| Isoparaffin | Isoparaffin | Shampoos, Creams | Dissolves fats, stabilizing |
| Isopropyl alcohol | Isopropyl Alcohol | hair care products, soaps | Disinfectant, dissolves fats |
| Octyldodecanol | Octyldodecanol | lip care, creams | Dissolves waxes and fats, softening |
| Oleyl Alcohol | Oleyl Alcohol | hair care, skin care products | Softening, stabilizing |
| PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil | PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil | skin care products | Emulsifying, dissolves fats |
| Pentylenglykol | Pentylene Glycol | creams, moisturizers | Antimicrobial, moisturizing |
| Polyglyceryl-3 Oleate | Polyglyceryl-3 Oleate | Cremes, Lotions | Soluble for fats and oils |
| Polyglyceryl-3 Oleate | Polyglyceryl-3 Oleate | Cremes, Lotions | Soluble for fats and oils |
| Polysorbat-80 | Polysorbate 80 | skin care, hair care | Dissolves oils and fats, stabilizing |
| Propylene glycol | Propylene Glycol | creams, lotions | Moisturizing, soluble for active ingredients |
| Stearylalkohol | Stearyl Alcohol | creams, soaps | Dissolves oils, stabilizing |
| Water | Aqua | All cosmetic products | Thinning, hydrating |
