When choosing the proper skincare, alcohol is just one ingredient to stay clear of.
Alcohol is used as a preservative to inhibit bacteria in skincare products that contain water. Products containing waterless formulations typically last longer as they do not inhibit bacteria growth. Ethanol (aka. Ethyl, SD or denat) and Isopropyl are the two most popular forms of alcohol used in commercially produced skincare products.
Alcohol strips natural oils from your skin. This dries it out and results in having to apply product more often. Over time your skin becomes accustom to this lack of oil and over compensates by producing excessive oil leading to more breakouts and clogged pores. Alcohol is abrasive and breaks down the skin barrier making it prone to inflammation, irritation, and breakouts. Continued use of products containing alcohol can lead to eczema, rosacea and increased signs of aging.
Balms are one of our favorite beauty products because they are waterless, and therefore do not need to contain alcohol or any other preservatives.
Check out the American Academy of Dermatology for more information: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/rosacea/triggers/tips