What to Know About Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol, also known as isopropyl alcohol, is a colorless, flammable liquid with a pungent odor. It is used as a disinfectant and antiseptic and is also found in many household products, such as hand sanitizers, cleaning wipes, and deodorants.
2. What are the different types of rubbing alcohol?
There are two main types of rubbing alcohol:
* 70% isopropyl alcohol: This is the most common type of rubbing alcohol and is found in most drug stores. It is effective at killing bacteria and viruses, but it can also be drying to the skin.
* 91% isopropyl alcohol: This type of rubbing alcohol is more concentrated and is less commonly found in drug stores. It is more effective at killing bacteria and viruses than 70% isopropyl alcohol, but it can also be more irritating to the skin.
3. How to use rubbing alcohol
Rubbing alcohol can be used in a variety of ways, including:
* As a disinfectant: Rubbing alcohol can be used to disinfect surfaces, such as countertops, doorknobs, and bathroom fixtures. To disinfect a surface, apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and wipe the surface until it is visibly wet. Allow the rubbing alcohol to air dry.
* As an antiseptic: Rubbing alcohol can be used to clean cuts, scrapes, and other minor wounds. To clean a wound, apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and gently wipe the wound. Be careful not to sting the wound. Allow the rubbing alcohol to air dry.
* As a hand sanitizer: Rubbing alcohol can be used as a hand sanitizer to kill germs. To use rubbing alcohol as a hand sanitizer, apply a small amount to your hands and rub them together until they are dry.
4. Precautions when using rubbing alcohol
Rubbing alcohol is flammable, so it should be used with caution. Here are some precautions to take when using rubbing alcohol:
* Keep rubbing alcohol away from open flames and sparks.
* Do not ingest rubbing alcohol.
* Avoid getting rubbing alcohol in your eyes.
* If you have sensitive skin, you may want to dilute rubbing alcohol with water before using it.
* Rubbing alcohol can be drying to the skin, so you may want to apply a moisturizer after using it.
5. When to see a doctor
If you experience any of the following symptoms after using rubbing alcohol, see a doctor:
* Severe pain or burning
* Blistering
* Swelling
* Redness that does not go away
* Infection
