Eczema is a common skin condition characterized by itchy, red, and inflamed skin. It can occur anywhere on the body but is most often found on the hands, feet, inner elbows, back of the knees, face, and neck. Eczema symptoms can range from mild to severe and the condition is often chronic, with flare-ups followed by periods of remission.
When eczema flares up, the skin may become extremely itchy, dry, cracked, and covered in red rashes or bumps. The intense itching leads many people to scratch the affected area, which only further irritates the skin. Rubbing alcohol applied to the skin may temporarily relieve itching and inflammation, but it is not an effective long-term treatment for eczema.
Does Rubbing Alcohol Provide Relief for Eczema?
Rubbing alcohol refers to either isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol) or ethyl alcohol (ethanol) mixed with distilled water. It is readily available at pharmacies and grocery stores. The alcohol serves as a disinfectant and evaporates quickly when applied to skin, creating a cooling sensation.
Applying rubbing alcohol to eczema can provide temporary relief of itching and burning sensations. The cooling feeling on the skin can soothe irritation and reduce inflammation. Rubbing alcohol also sanitizes the skin, killing bacteria that may be present in eczema lesions. Some people report that rubbing alcohol dries out oozing or weeping eczema patches.
However, rubbing alcohol only provides instant and short-lived relief for eczema symptoms. It does not treat the underlying causes of eczema or have any lasting effect. Once the alcohol evaporates, eczema will likely flare up again. The itching and inflammation return, sometimes feeling even worse than before.
Risks and Dangers of Using Rubbing Alcohol on Eczema
While rubbing alcohol may temporarily ease some eczema discomforts, it can actually make the condition worse in the long run. Frequent use comes with significant risks and dangers:
- Dries out skin – Alcohol removes oil and moisture from skin. But people with eczema already suffer from extremely dry, irritated skin. Alcohol-based products cause further dehydration.
- Damages skin barrier – Alcohol compromises the skin’s protective outer layer. With the barrier impaired, the skin is more prone to environmental damage and loses moisture.
- Increases infection risk – Rubbing alcohol only sanitizes the surface of the skin. Deeper bacteria and microbes may be pushed further into skin lesions or hair follicles, increasing chance of infection.
- Causes excessive stinging or burning – Alcohol triggers a neurogenic response that makes eczema feel like it’s burning. This often worsens itching and scratching.
- Leads to more inflammation – While alcohol may initially reduce inflammation, it soon causes the immune system to overreact and trigger even more swelling and redness.
- Makes skin thinner – With prolonged use, alcohol thins the outer skin layers and weakens structural proteins in the skin.
These negative effects mean that rubbing alcohol typically provides very limited relief for eczema patients. The stinging, itching, dryness, and redness tend to return and require constant reapplication of alcohol. As tolerance develops, higher concentrations may be needed to get the same temporary relief, leading to greater risks of damage.
Professional Medical Guidance on Rubbing Alcohol for Eczema
Doctors and dermatologists do not recommend using rubbing alcohol as a treatment for eczema. Dr. Peter Lio, director of the Chicago Integrative Eczema Center, cautions that alcohol only further dries and irritates the skin instead of resolving the root problem. The National Eczema Association also advises against using alcohol-based products because it can cause excessive stinging.
Medical professionals say occasional use of rubbing alcohol to sanitize eczema lesions may be acceptable. However, it is critical to immediately follow up with gentle moisturizers. Doctors emphasize avoidance of alcohol use as an everyday long-term approach. They recommend against “home remedies” and encourage eczema patients to use treatments formulated specifically for sensitive skin.
Alternative Eczema Treatments
There are many safer, more effective treatments for eczema management under medical supervision:
| Treatment | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Corticosteroid creams and ointments | Reduce inflammation and relieve itching |
| Immunomodulators | Calms immune system reactions |
| Biologic drugs | Targets specific proteins involved in eczema |
| Antihistamines | Prevent natural histamine release |
| Phototherapy | Uses UVA and UVB light to treat skin |
Doctors also recommend gentle skincare techniques like regular moisturizing and avoidance of common triggers. With professional guidance, those with eczema can keep symptoms under control and avoid the temptation to use ineffective quick fixes like rubbing alcohol.
Using Rubbing Alcohol Safely
Rubbing alcohol may provide very temporary relief from eczema discomfort. However, it should never be used as anything more than an occasional emergency measure. Rubbing alcohol is not a substitute for medical eczema treatment. Remember:
- Use minimal amounts of alcohol for brief periods only
- Thoroughly rinse off alcohol and immediately apply moisturizer
- Check with a doctor before using on sensitive or broken skin
- Stop use if there is any hint of irritation, stinging, or burning
- Carefully follow warnings and directions on the product label
- Keep alcohol away from eyes, nose, and mouth
- Store tightly sealed and out of reach of children
The Takeaway
Rubbing alcohol may temporarily cool, disinfect, and dry out weeping eczema, providing very short-term itch relief. However, it should never be used as a primary long-term treatment. Alcohol further dries the skin, damages the protective barrier, and increases inflammation over time. This leads to worsening of eczema symptoms. It’s critical to follow professional medical advice and use proper medicated eczema skincare products and treatments. With the right care, those with eczema can successfully manage their condition without risky quick fixes like rubbing alcohol.