Does Isopropyl Alcohol Burn Skin?
Isopropyl alcohol does not cause a true chemical burn in a brief wipe, but CDC/NIOSH lists skin contact as an exposure route and dry, cracking skin as a symptom. It is also flammable, with a flash point of 53 F. If it gets on skin, flush with water.
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Rubbing Alcohol Dilution Chart (PDF)
How much 99%, 91% or 70% rubbing alcohol and water to mix for a 70% or 60% cleaning solution, for 100, 250 and 500 ml. Every line shows its source and the date we read it. Print it or keep it on your phone.
- Ready-made amounts for 99%, 91% and 70% bottles
- The 60-90% range the CDC gives for alcohol disinfectants, and safety notes
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What CDC/NIOSH lists
The NIOSH Pocket Guide entry for isopropyl alcohol (listed also as rubbing alcohol) names inhalation, ingestion, and skin and/or eye contact as exposure routes. Symptoms include irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, and dry, cracking skin. For skin contact, it gives first aid as a water flush, and says to prevent skin and eye contact.
The NIOSH entry does not use the word “burn” for skin. We found no official source in our check that describes ordinary skin use as causing burns, so the safest wording is “irritation and drying.” Repeated or prolonged contact, broken skin and eyes are higher-risk situations: ask a doctor or pharmacist if skin becomes red, painful or blistered.
Fire is the bigger hazard
NIOSH classes isopropyl alcohol as a Class IB flammable liquid with a flash point of 53 F. That means vapor can ignite at normal room temperature. Never use it near a flame, cigarette, stove or heater, and let it dry fully before any heat source.
Practical steps
- Rinse skin with water after contact.
- Keep it away from eyes and open cuts.
- Use in a ventilated space.
- Do not swallow it; call poison control (1-800-222-1222 in the US) if that happens.
To check strength for a diluted mix, see our rubbing alcohol dilution calculator.
People also ask
Does isopropyl alcohol burn your skin?
NIOSH lists dry, cracking skin and irritation; it does not describe burns from normal use. Flush with water if irritated.
Is rubbing alcohol flammable?
Yes. NIOSH lists a flash point of 53 F and classes it as a Class IB flammable liquid.
What should I do if isopropyl alcohol gets on my skin?
NIOSH first aid for skin contact is a water flush. See a doctor if redness, pain or blisters develop.
Sources
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