Nearly all of us have had to deal with wounds at some point in our lives, from scratches, cuts, insect bites, blisters, to scraped knees and burns. How well these wounds heal and whether they risk getting infected depends entirely on how we care for them.
For many, a common practice to clean a wound is using rubbing alcohol, which is easily available at pharmacies. But is this really the right way?
Alcohols, specifically isopropyl alcohol and ethyl alcohol, have been used as low-level disinfectants in healthcare settings for many years, mainly before surgery or an injection, due to their antiseptic properties. But this does not always mean it is the right choice, especially when it comes to wounds.
Here, we debunk four of the most common misconceptions on the use of rubbing alcohols.
Myth #1 - Rubbing alcohol kills germs
Fact: Alcohol is effective against bacteria and some viruses — but it is not effective against spores. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), isopropanol is ineffective against killing non-enveloped viruses such as hepatitis A and rotavirus, which causes severe watery diarrhea and vomiting in infants and young children.
The efficacy of alcohol in eradicating organisms also depends on its concentration. At concentrations below 50%, the antimicrobial activity of alcohol is in fact significantly lower.
In addition, agents such as alcohol that work by dissolving the lipid envelopes tend to only show potency towards a narrower range of viruses and may require longer exposure durations. However, alcohol evaporates quickly when exposed to air, which reduces its contact time with the virus.
Use Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) instead — our solutions are formulated with povidone iodine (PVP-I), a broad spectrum topical antiseptic, to kill over 99.99% of bacteria, fungi and viruses, including non-enveloped types which are resistant to alcohol, based on in vitro data.
Myth #2 - Using rubbing alcohol is the best and is a safe way to clean minor cuts and open wounds
Fact: Although alcohol can hamper bacterial activity at the site of the injury, it can actually delay the healing process by causing damage to healthy skin cells, leading to pain, swelling, irritation and itching. New tissue is especially susceptible to harsh antiseptics such as alcohol because it is more sensitive than mature skin.
For minor wounds, the best cleaning method is to wash with gentle soap and rinse for at least five minutes using cool running water to clear away dirt, debris and bacteria.
Use Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) instead — our clinically-proven solutions can be used to clean, disinfect and treat acute as well as chronic wounds, without damaging new skin tissue.
Myth #3 - Alcohol evaporates quickly, so it leaves a cooling effect
Fact: Rubbing alcohol has a low boiling point and high volatility, which means it readily changes from liquid to gas at room temperature. During evaporation, it absorbs heat from the surrounding environment (in this case, your skin). This is what causes the cooling effect on your skin as the alcohol transforms from liquid to gas.
However, on skin with cuts, abrasions and other types of wounds, rubbing alcohol actually causes a burning sensation and irritation to the skin’s nerve endings due to its quick evaporation. This burning sensation is present even when alcohol is used on intact skin, though it is usually mild and lasts for a short time. However, excessive use or prolonged contact with rubbing alcohol can cause dryness, irritation, or even chemical burns in some cases, as it strips away natural oils and moisture.
Use Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) instead — our solutions have no stinging effect (or “hapdi”) as they do not contain alcohol.
Myth #4 - Rubbing alcohol does not have any adverse effect on the skin
Fact: Rubbing alcohol can have toxic effects especially when applied to damaged skin, as it is absorbed more quickly into the bloodstream. When used improperly or excessively this can potentially cause systemic toxicity, resulting in symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, nausea, and in severe cases, respiratory depression or organ damage.
Rubbing alcohol has also been associated with several skin disorders such as eczema or contact dermatitis, which can cause further damage to tissues and hinder the wound healing process. When used on infants or children’s skin, the risk for irritation is higher due to their thinner skin and smaller body mass, which makes them more susceptible to alcohol poisoning.
Use Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) instead — our solutions are rarely associated with contact dermatitis and have good tolerability.
Our PVP-I range includes Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) 10% Antiseptic Solution, which offers 4-steps-in-1 product to clean, disinfect, protect and treat infections in minor cuts, wounds, abrasions and burns, with no alcohol and no pain or stinging. Use this as the first step in your wound care, and follow up with Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) 10% Antiseptic Ointment, (https://ph.betadine.global/en/ph/product-category/product/woundcare/povidone-iodine-betadine-ointment), Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) 5% Cream (https://ph.betadine.global/en/ph/product-category/product/wound-care/povidone-iodinebetadine-cream) or Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) 2.5% Dry Powder Spray. Once done, cover up the wound with a plaster or dressing, as necessary.
If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
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