Evidence supporting the use of: Isopropanol
For the health condition: Skin (infections)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol) is widely used as an antiseptic for skin disinfection, particularly to reduce or prevent skin infections by killing or inactivating microorganisms. Its use is scientifically validated, especially in medical and healthcare settings for pre-injection skin cleansing, wound cleaning, and hand sanitization. Isopropanol acts rapidly to denature proteins and disrupt cell membranes of bacteria, fungi, and some viruses, leading to their inactivation. Numerous studies, including those cited by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO), demonstrate its efficacy in reducing microbial counts on the skin. However, while isopropanol is effective at preventing skin infections by decontaminating the skin surface, it is not used for the treatment of established skin infections, as it does not penetrate tissues or eradicate deeper infections. Its use is generally limited to intact skin because application to open wounds may cause irritation and delay healing. Overuse can also lead to dryness and dermatitis. In summary, isopropanol is scientifically validated for prevention of skin infections through topical antisepsis, but not for treating existing infections. The overall evidence is solid for its preventive antiseptic action (rating: 3), but its role does not extend to actual infection treatment.

More about Isopropanol
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Other health conditions supported by Isopropanol

Infection
Scratches and Abrasions
Skin (infections)

Products containing Isopropanol

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.