Isopropanol (i.e., isopropyl alcohol) is a clear, colorless, bitter liquid commonly found in “rubbing alcohol,” skin lotion, hair tonics, aftershave lotion, denatured alcohol, solvents, cements, cleaning products, and de-icers.

Isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, has several uses in cosmetics, including: 

• Antifoaming agent: Reduces the amount of foam that forms when a product is shaken 

• Solvent: Dissolves other substances 

• Viscosity controller: Increases or decreases the viscosity of a product 

• Perfuming: Part of perfume oils and flavors 

• Astringent: Causes a tingling or tightening sensation on the skin 

• Bactericidal: Kills bacteria that cause acne 

Isopropyl alcohol is generally considered safe for topical use in low concentrations, but it can be drying to the skin. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that isopropyl alcohol is safe for use in cosmetics under current conditions.