Methanol

1. Definition Methanol:

Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol, wood alcohol, or carbinol, is a colorless, volatile liquid with a mild alcoholic odor. It is commonly used as a solvent, antifreeze, fuel, and denaturant for ethanol. In cosmetics, methanol is sometimes used as a solvent in nail polish removers and hair care products.

2. Use:

Methanol is used in cosmetics primarily as a solvent to dissolve other ingredients and improve the consistency of products. It is commonly found in nail polish removers to help break down the polish and make it easier to remove from the nails. Methanol can also be used in hair care products to help dissolve oils and other ingredients for better application and absorption into the hair.

3. Usage Methanol:

While methanol can be effective in cosmetics as a solvent, it is important to use it with caution. Methanol is toxic when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. It can cause irritation, redness, and burning sensations on the skin and eyes. Prolonged or repeated exposure to methanol can lead to more serious health effects, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even organ damage. It is important to follow safety guidelines when using products containing methanol and to avoid direct contact with the skin or eyes.

4. References:

- National Center for Biotechnology Information. PubChem Compound Summary for CID 887, Methanol. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Methanol

- Cosmetics Info. Methanol. https://www.cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/methanol

- Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Methanol. https://www.osha.gov/chemicaldata/chemdetail/M210