Can rubbing alcohol have long-term negative effects on the skin?
On One Hand: Rubbing Alcohol is an Effective DisinfectantAccording to the New South Wales, Australia, Department of Health, rubbing alcohol and alcohol-based hand rubs are an effective disinfectant due to their ability to destroy bacteria, their efficiency and accessibility. The department also claims that alcohol-based rubs can improve skin quality in certain instances.On the Other: Rubbing Alcohol is HarshRubbing alcohol is hard on the skin and can strip it of its essential oils and nutrients, according to Acne Skin Care.com. It also states that using it to treat acne is not the best method. Rubbing alcohol will clean the skin but will only dry out existing pimples. It will not cure acne.Bottom LineRubbing alcohol can offer some advantages to the skin. It reduces bacteria and cleans effectively and quickly.