
General Description:
Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA), also known as isopropanol or rubbing alcohol, is a colorless, volatile liquid with a strong odor. It is a widely used solvent and antiseptic with excellent disinfecting properties. Manufacturers prefer IPA due to its rapid evaporation and effectiveness in dissolving oils, dirt, and other impurities.
Uses in the Cosmetics Industry:
Isopropyl Alcohol is an essential ingredient in many personal care and beauty products. It is commonly used in:
- Found in toners, astringents, and acne treatments for its antibacterial and oil-dissolving properties.
- Used to sanitize cosmetic tools and remove product residues.
- Included in some styling products for fast drying and residue-free application.
- Acts as a carrier solvent in perfumes and colognes.
- A key ingredient for disinfection and germ protection.
Side Effects & Hazards:
While Isopropyl Alcohol is widely used, it must be handled with care. Potential side effects include:
- Prolonged or frequent use may strip the skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
- Inhaling high concentrations can cause dizziness, headaches, or nausea.
- Direct contact may lead to burning or discomfort.
- Highly flammable; should be stored away from heat and open flames.
Where to Buy Isopropyl Alcohol – Wholesale & Bulk Sales
Looking to buy Isopropyl Alcohol in bulk? We offer high-quality wholesale Isopropyl Alcohol for manufacturers and businesses in the cosmetics, personal care, and industrial sectors. Whether you need large-scale supply for formulation or small-batch sales, we provide competitive pricing and reliable shipping.
CAS Number: 67-63-0
INCI Name: Isopropyl Alcohol
Composition: A simple secondary alcohol (C₃H₈O), also known as 2-propanol
Purity Grade: Available in various grades, including pharmaceutical (USP), cosmetic, and industrial grades; typically 70-99% purity
Appearance: Colorless, volatile liquid with a strong alcoholic odor
Solubility: Completely miscible with water, ethanol, and most organic solvents
Preservation: Self-preserving due to its antimicrobial properties; does not require additional preservatives
Storage: Store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, and open flames; keep container tightly sealed
Raw Material Sources: Derived from petroleum or fermentation of bio-based feedstocks
Manufacture: Produced by the hydration of propene or hydrogenation of acetone
Animal Testing: Depends on supplier; widely available as cruelty-free
GMO: Generally GMO-free, but bio-based versions may depend on GMO feedstocks
Vegan: Considered vegan as it does not contain animal-derived ingredients
Warning: Highly flammable; can cause skin and eye irritation; inhalation of high concentrations may cause dizziness or drowsiness
THE STORY OF ISOPROPYL ALCOHOL
Isopropyl Alcohol: The Essential Solvent & Quick-Drying Agent for Clean Formulations
Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) is a widely used solvent, cleanser, and quick-evaporating carrier in cosmetic, skincare, and hygiene formulations.
It helps dissolve oils, sanitize tools, enhance drying speed, and support formula clarity—making it essential in sanitizers, toners, aftershaves, makeup products, and industrial cosmetic processing.
A High-Purity Secondary Alcohol Engineered for Safe Cosmetic Performance
Cosmetic-grade IPA is produced through hydration or catalytic conversion of propylene, then purified via fractional distillation.
Key properties include:
• Rapid evaporation
• Excellent oil solubility
• Strong disinfecting ability
• High clarity and low residue
TRCkem supplies IPA in 70%, 90%, and 99% purity grades suitable for controlled cosmetic applications.
Clean. Evaporate. Refresh.
IPA offers versatile functionality in cosmetics and hygiene products:
✅ Acts as a fast-drying solvent
✅ Provides antimicrobial cleansing for tools & surfaces
✅ Helps dissolve oils, resins & fragrance compounds
✅ Adds a refreshing, cooling effect in toners & aftershaves
✅ Enhances drying speed in sprays and sanitizers
Used in: hand sanitizers, toners, aftershaves, makeup cleaning solutions, aerosols, deodorants, and cosmetic tool sterilizers.
Highly Volatile & Effective—Use in Controlled Cosmetic Concentrations
• Typical use level varies by category:
– 60–80% for sanitizers
– 5–30% in toners, sprays & aftershaves
– Up to 100% for equipment/tool cleansing
• Store tightly closed, away from ignition sources
• Use in well-ventilated formulation areas
• Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged direct skin exposure
• Flammable—follow all cosmetic safety and transport guidelines
• Only use cosmetic-grade IPA in approved formulations
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is Isopropyl Alcohol and how is it used in personal care products?
Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) is a volatile, colorless liquid widely used in personal care and cosmetic formulations as a solvent, antiseptic, and astringent. It helps dissolve oils, improve product texture, and enhance the absorption of active ingredients.
2. What is the CAS number and INCI name of Isopropyl Alcohol?
CAS Number: 67-63-0
INCI Name: Isopropyl Alcohol
3. What are the benefits of Isopropyl Alcohol in personal care products?
Isopropyl Alcohol is valued for its:
Antimicrobial properties – Helps in sanitizing and disinfecting skin
Oil-dissolving ability – Works as an effective solvent in skincare and haircare
Astringent effect – Helps tighten pores and reduce excess oil on the skin
Fast-drying nature – Enhances the evaporation rate of sprays and lotions
4. In which types of personal care products is Isopropyl Alcohol used?
Isopropyl Alcohol is commonly found in:
Hand sanitizers and disinfectants
Astringents and facial toners for oily skin
Hair sprays and styling products
Aftershaves and deodorants
Cleansing wipes and makeup removers
5. Are there any safety concerns associated with Isopropyl Alcohol?
While Isopropyl Alcohol is safe for topical use in regulated concentrations, high concentrations can cause skin dryness and irritation. It should be used in moderation, and prolonged exposure to large amounts should be avoided. It is not recommended for use on broken or highly sensitive skin.
6. What is the recommended usage level of Isopropyl Alcohol in personal care formulations?
The typical usage levels in cosmetics and personal care products are:
0.5% – 10% in skincare and haircare formulations
Up to 70% in hand sanitizers and disinfectants
7. Is Isopropyl Alcohol suitable for all skin types?
Isopropyl Alcohol is best suited for oily and acne-prone skin due to its astringent properties. However, individuals with dry or sensitive skin should use products containing IPA cautiously to avoid excessive dryness.
8. Can Isopropyl Alcohol be used in hair care?
Yes! In haircare, it is used to:
Improve the drying time of styling sprays
Dissolve excess oil and product buildup
Enhance the absorption of active ingredients in scalp treatments
9. Is Isopropyl Alcohol considered a natural ingredient?
No, Isopropyl Alcohol is a synthetic chemical derived from petroleum or acetone-based sources. However, it is widely accepted in personal care formulations due to its effectiveness and safety when used appropriately
10. Is Isopropyl Alcohol allowed in organic and natural cosmetics?
Most organic-certified and natural beauty brands avoid Isopropyl Alcohol due to its synthetic origin. However, it is commonly used in conventional personal care products that require a fast-drying, antimicrobial solvent