11 Skincare Ingredients to Avoid in Indian Weather

4. Denatured alcohol (Alcohol denat., SD alcohol)

Denatured alcohol appears in many toners, astringents, and quick-dry sprays because it evaporates fast and gives a matte finish. That snap-dry feel can be tempting in heat, but repeated use strips natural oils and damages the skin barrier. When the barrier is compromised, irritation and inflammation increase and the skin may actually overproduce oil in response, which is the last thing you want on a humid commute. Alcohol-heavy products can also worsen redness during sun exposure or after sweating. For humid climates, choose formulations that use fatty alcohols (like cetyl or cetearyl alcohol), which are emollient and less stripping. If you need a lightweight toner, opt for low-alcohol or alcohol-free hydrating mists with glycerin or botanical humectants. These keep your skin feeling fresh without the long-term drying effects associated with denatured alcohol. [AAD: alcohol and skin].