Isopropyl Alcohol
Other names: Propan-2-ol, isopropanol, Rubbing Alcohol
Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)
Isopropyl Alcohol, also known as Propan-2-ol, isopropanol or rubbing alcohol, is often used in many industries. This chemical has a strong antibacterial and disinfectant effect, which is why it is often used in medicinal and cleaning products. Isopropyl alcohol is colourless, highly flammable and has a strong alcoholic odour. Although it is a toxic substance, it is safe for humans in small quantities and when used properly.
Because of its ability to evaporate quickly and leave surfaces dry, isopropyl alcohol is used as a component of cleaning products for electronics, optics or medical devices. In the home, it is often the main ingredient in glass cleaners or as a degreasing agent. It is also widely used in the cosmetics industry, for example in skin tonics to cleanse and disinfect the skin. In medicine, isopropyl alcohol is mainly used as a dermal antiseptic, i.e. to disinfect the skin before surgical procedures, or in a less concentrated form to treat minor wounds, cuts and abrasions. Isopropyl alcohol is also a component of some hand disinfectant gels.