The distinction is between alcohol in a finished skincare formula and a bottle of rubbing alcohol. The guidance below concerns rubbing alcohol and alcohol based hand sanitizer, not a confirmed Skin Genie formula.1
Should you use rubbing alcohol as a toner?
Rubbing alcohol is an astringent, meaning it tightens pores, but it can also dry the skin. Skip it as a facial toner if your skin is sensitive or acne prone. If you do use rubbing alcohol on your face, apply moisturizer afterward. This is general guidance about rubbing alcohol, not directions for a Skin Genie product.1
Drugstore rubbing alcohol contains isopropyl alcohol and water, commonly in strengths from 50% to 90%. Higher concentrations can be harsher on skin. The 70% strength commonly used for household jobs is not a suggested strength for a facial routine.1
Rubbing alcohol can disinfect manicure tools and thermometers, which is a respectable career without a promotion to skincare. Its ability to kill many bacteria, viruses and fungi is useful for cleaning tools, but does not make it the best choice for cleansing your face.1
What if you mean alcohol based hand sanitizer?
Hand sanitizer is made to reduce bacteria on hands, a job description that does not include moonlighting as a facial. Wash your hands with plain soap and water when possible. When neither is available, use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol. Sanitizer does not eliminate every type of germ and works less well on visibly dirty or greasy hands.23
What if hand sanitizer gets in your eyes?
Alcohol based hand sanitizer can cause severe irritation and damage to the eye's surface. Do not use it in or near your eyes, and avoid touching your eyes after applying it. If sanitizer gets into an eye, immediately rinse thoroughly under gently running water for at least 15 to 20 minutes. Seek an urgent eye examination if pain, redness, irritation, blurred vision or light sensitivity persists after rinsing.2
