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Rubbing Alcohol Facts

Rubbing alcohol is a common solution found in most first aid kits and many bathroom cabinets. It is primarily used for medical or cosmetic purposes and can be purchased over the counter at a drug or grocery store.

  1. Uses

    • Rubbing alcohol is used to clean cuts and scrapes and to sterilize wounds and medical equipment. It also is found in the cosmetic industry in topical skincare products, such as astringents, cleansers and nail care products, such as nail polish remover.

    Properties

    • Rubbing alcohol's official name is isopropyl alcohol, also known as 2-propanol due to its molecular structure. According to International Programme on Chemical Safety, 2-propanol is a compound that is completely miscible with ethanol, acetone, water, benzene and chloroform.

    Features

    • Rubbing alcohol is colorless and has a distinct odor. The International Programme on Chemical Safety describes the odor as a combination of ethanol and acetone.

    Warning

    • Rubbing alcohol is a highly flammable compound that must not be used or combined with flames, lighters, gasses and extreme temperatures. Toxicity can occur when rubbing alcohol is ingested, so warning labels caution consumers against drinking the solution.

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