Methanol
What is Methanol?
Methanol is a simple, volatile, colorless alcohol used industrially as a solvent, fuel, and chemical intermediate, but it is highly toxic and not approved for use in cosmetics or skincare products. In skincare, it has no beneficial function and poses severe health risks due to its ability to be metabolized into formaldehyde and formic acid in the body. Regulatory bodies worldwide prohibit its intentional addition to topical products because even small amounts can cause systemic poisoning upon absorption.
Roles in Formulation
This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:
Solvent
Dissolves and carries other ingredients, helping control viscosity, evaporation rate, and delivery of actives in both water- and oil-based systems.
Denaturant
Makes ethanol undrinkable (for regulatory/tax purposes) and can influence dry-down and sensory feel in alcohol-based sprays, toners, and fragrances.