What is Isopropyl Alcohol?
Isopropyl alcohol is a pure form of alcohol with a concentration of up to 100%. It's commonly used in various industries, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and as a solvent. Due to its high concentration, it's not suitable for home use and should never be applied directly to the skin.
What is Rubbing Alcohol?
Rubbing alcohol, on the other hand, is a diluted form of isopropyl alcohol, usually containing around 60-70% isopropyl alcohol. This dilution is due to the addition of water and sometimes other ingredients that make it suitable for application to the skin. Rubbing alcohol is commonly used at home as an antiseptic to clean cuts and scrapes and disinfect objects.
Differences in uses
While both isopropyl alcohol and rubbing alcohol are antibacterial, antiseptic, and flammable, their uses differ significantly:
- Isopropyl alcohol uses:
- Manufactured for cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications.
- Not suitable for home use due to its high concentration and potential hazards.
- Rubbing alcohol uses:
- Ideal for disinfecting cuts, scrapes, sanitising the skin and household objects.
How to Use Rubbing Alcohol safely
- Disinfecting items: Use a cotton wool dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean thermometers, keyboards, and phones.
- Disinfecting cuts and scrapes: Apply rubbing alcohol to a cotton pad and gently clean the area. Cover with a sterile bandage if necessary.
- Relieving muscle aches: Apply rubbing alcohol to the affected area while ensuring good ventilation.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between isopropyl alcohol and rubbing alcohol is crucial for their safe and effective use. While rubbing alcohol is suitable for home use and first aid, isopropyl alcohol is best left to industrial and professional applications. Always follow directions for use and heed safety precautions to avoid any adverse effects.
