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Isopropyl alcohol (inci)

Author:Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer

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Last updated on: 29.10.2020

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Synonym(s)

2-propanol; Alcohol isopropylicus; CAS number: 67-63-0; i-propanol; Isopropanol; Isopropyl alcohol; propan-2-ol; secondary propyl alcohol

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DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.

Isopropyl alcohol is a simple, non-cyclic alcohol with the linear formula: H3C-CH(OH)-CH3, which is used in cosmetic formulations, often as a substitute for ethanol.

The alcohol acts as an anti-foaming agent (suppresses foam formation), solvent and viscosity regulator (increases or decreases the viscosity of cosmetic products).

Medical applications: Isopropyl alcohol has a wide range of applications in medicine. It is used as a disinfectant, for example in surface and hand disinfection.

Undesirable effectsThis section has been translated automatically.

Isopropanol is considered to be a weakly sensitizing substance that only rarely sensitizes. In a larger study (n=1450) on contact allergic potential, the sensitization rate was 3(!)%. Among the persons at risk are mainly members of the medical profession (Garcia-Gavin J et al. 2011).

LiteratureThis section has been translated automatically.

  1. García-Gavín J (2011) Allergic contact dermatitis caused by isopropyl alcohol: a missed allergen? Contact Dermatitis 65:101-106.

Authors

Last updated on: 29.10.2020

Author: Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer