Rubbing Alcohol for Eczema? Here Is What to Know (2024)

Using rubbing alcohol on eczema rashes may worsen the condition by drying out your skin and causing irritation. Gentle moisturizing products may help.

Managing eczema often involves avoiding triggers like harsh soaps, scented products, allergens, and extreme temperatures that can irritate sensitive skin.

While some people may use rubbing alcohol for its disinfecting properties, applying it to eczema-prone skin can cause dryness and irritation, which may worsen symptoms.

Healthcare professionals generally don’t recommend using rubbing alcohol on skin with atopic dermatitis (eczema), as the condition can make your skin more sensitive and prone to irritation.

Rubbing alcohol, as an astringent, disrupts your skin’s natural barrier by stripping away oils that help retain moisture, reducing protection from allergens and irritants. This disruption can worsen eczema symptoms, such as:

  • dryness
  • itchiness
  • flakiness

A 2020 research review found that n-propanol, used in alcohol-based hand sanitizers, was less likely to irritate the participants’ skin on its own. However, continuous exposure to 60% n-propanol caused significant damage to their skin barriers, especially when combined with other irritants like sodium lauryl sulfate, commonly present in shampoos and soaps.

Consider following a healthcare professional’s treatment plan if you have infected eczema. Rubbing alcohol on infected eczema could lead to even more dryness, pain, and irritation, which may delay healing.

Yes, many eczema ointments and creams contain alcohol, but not all types of alcohol are harmful to sensitive or eczema-prone skin.

Try to differentiate between the various types of alcohol commonly present in skin care products. Some can be effective, while others may worsen the condition.

Common types of alcohols in eczema ointments and creams include:

  • Ethyl alcohol (Ethanol): Companies often use this type of alcohol as a preservative or to create a lightweight feel in their products. However, frequent use can strip your skin of natural oils, causing dryness and irritation.
  • Cetearyl alcohol: This is a generally well-tolerated fatty alcohol that manufacturers commonly use in eczema creams. Unlike ethyl alcohol, cetearyl alcohol has emollient properties, helping moisturize and soothe your skin.
  • Isopropyl alcohol: Companies use this alcohol as a disinfectant or solvent in many skin care products. Like ethyl alcohol, it can be drying and may lead to further irritation in eczema-prone skin.

In sum, while alcohols like ethanol and isopropyl alcohol can be irritating, fatty alcohols like cetearyl alcohol are generally tolerable and may help protect your skin barrier. It may be a good idea to check your products’ ingredients to make sure they don’t contain damaging alcohol.

When choosing skin care products for eczema, it’s essential to be cautious about ingredients and formulations to avoid flare-ups or worsening symptoms.

Besides some types of alcohol, common ingredients that may cause eczema for some people include:

  • Fragrances: These are a common cause of irritation and allergic reactions. Opt for fragrance-free products labeled as ”unscented” instead.
  • Preservatives: Certain preservatives, like methylisothiazolinone, may irritate sensitive skin and lead to eczema flares.
  • Sulfates: Sulfates in cleansers and shampoos may strip your skin’s moisture, leading to dryness and irritation.

Products labeled as hypoallergenic may help lower the risk of allergic reactions. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate the term ”hypoallergenic,” so its meaning can differ between brands, and these products may still cause reactions in some people.

Instead, consider looking for labels like ”dermatologist-tested” or ”suitable for sensitive skin,” which are generally safer for people with eczema-prone skin.

Ointments are also preferable over creams for eczema management because they contain more oil than water, providing better moisture retention for your skin. Consider performing a patch test when trying any new product to ensure no allergic reaction or irritation occurs.

A patch test involves applying a pea-sized amount of product to a small area of skin, like the inner forearm, and waiting 24 to 48 hours to check for any redness or other color changes, irritation, or allergic reaction.

Finding the right skin care products for eczema can take time and effort, as what works for one person may not work for another. However, selecting products with gentle ingredients and avoiding irritants can help manage eczema and keep your skin healthy.

Experts generally don’t recommend rubbing alcohol for eczema, as it strips natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation, which can worsen symptoms by disrupting your skin barrier.

Some alcohols, like cetearyl alcohol, are beneficial for eczema, helping moisturize and protect your skin, while others, like ethanol and isopropyl alcohol, can dry it out further.

When choosing skin care products for eczema, avoid those with fragrances and harsh preservatives, and always do a patch test to prevent allergic reactions.

Rubbing Alcohol for Eczema? Here Is What to Know (2024)
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