Let me guess, you’re standing in the nail aisle wondering which form of isopropyl alcohol to choose? Well in most cases, 70% isopropyl alcohol is the go-to choice for most nail prep, cleaning, and sanitizing needs. Effective and gentle, it’s a versatile solution that’s suitable for removing dirt and oils, whilst also preventing bacteria and fungi growth.
Not many people are aware of the differences between 70% and 90% isopropyl alcohol and how it affects the quality of their nail care. However, this article will help you make an informed decision on which percentage you might want to buy, and ensure your nails always look their best. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive in!
What is Isopropyl Alcohol?
Before diving into the differences between 70% isopropyl alcohol and 90% isopropyl alcohol, let’s take a step back and answer the question, “What is isopropyl alcohol?”
Isopropyl alcohol is a type of alcohol that is made from petroleum. It’s a colorless, flammable, and volatile liquid that has a strong odor. Isopropyl alcohol is widely used in a variety of industries, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and, of course, nail care.
But why is it so popular in nail care? The answer is simple: its antiseptic properties. Isopropyl alcohol is an excellent sanitizer, and when used correctly, it can help to keep your nails healthy and free from harmful bacteria and fungi. So, whether you’re getting ready for a manicure or just want to keep your nails in tip-top shape, isopropyl alcohol is a must-have in your nail care kit.
The Difference between 70% and 90% Isopropyl Alcohol
Essentially, they have different proportions of isopropyl alcohol and water. As the name suggests, 70% isopropyl alcohol contains 70% alcohol and 30% water, while 90% isopropyl alcohol contains 90% alcohol and only 10% water. This difference in concentration means that 90% isopropyl alcohol is stronger and more effective as a sanitizer than 70% isopropyl alcohol.
Another difference between the two is their evaporation rate. 90% isopropyl alcohol evaporates faster than 70% isopropyl alcohol, which makes it more convenient for some uses, like cleaning and sanitizing surfaces. On the other hand, 70% isopropyl alcohol is less harsh on the skin and is often used as a skin sanitizer.
So, which one should you choose for your nail care routine?
For most people, 70% isopropyl alcohol will work great as it is gentler. However, you might want to choose 90% Isopropyl Alcohol if you prefer to have stronger sanitization and it also evaporates from your nails quickly, ensuring there is no residue and possible water before beginning your next step during nail prep.
Uses of 70% Isopropyl Alcohol for Nails
As mentioned earlier, 70% isopropyl alcohol is a gentler option and is often used as a skin sanitizer. But did you know that it has several other benefits for your nails as well?
One of the most common uses of 70% isopropyl alcohol in nail care is as a surface sanitizer. Before you start a manicure or pedicure, it’s important to clean and sanitize your nails to remove any dirt, oil, or bacteria that might be present. Simply pour a small amount of 70% isopropyl alcohol onto a cotton pad and gently swipe it over your nails to sanitize them.
Another use for 70% isopropyl alcohol is as a nail prep. Before you apply polish or other products to your nails, it’s important to make sure your nails are clean and dry. Use 70% isopropyl alcohol to remove any oils or residue from your nails and to help the polish adhere better.
Lastly, 70% isopropyl alcohol can also be used to remove sticky residue from artificial nails. Simply soak a cotton pad in the alcohol and hold it against the residue for a few seconds. The residue should then wipe away easily.
So, as you can see, 70% isopropyl alcohol is a versatile and essential tool in any nail care kit. Whether you’re a seasoned nail enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of manicures, 70% isopropyl alcohol is sure to come in handy.
When Should You Use 70% Isopropyl Alcohol for Nails?
While 90% isopropyl alcohol is a great choice for many nail care tasks, it’s not the best choice for every situation. For most cases, 70% isopropyl alcohol is the better option.
For example, 70% isopropyl alcohol is gentler on skin and nails than 90% isopropyl alcohol. If you’re looking to clean your nails or remove nail polish, but you’re concerned about harshness or dryness, 70% isopropyl alcohol may be the better choice.
In addition, 70% isopropyl alcohol is a better choice for sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin or if you’re using it on someone with sensitive skin, 70% isopropyl alcohol may be the gentler, more appropriate option.
Finally, 70% isopropyl alcohol is also a good choice for everyday cleaning and sanitizing tasks. If you’re looking to clean your nail tools or sanitize your workspace, 70% isopropyl alcohol is a great choice.
So, when considering which type of isopropyl alcohol to use for your nail care needs, think about your specific goals and what you hope to achieve. If gentleness and mildness are your top priorities, 70% isopropyl alcohol may be the better choice.
How to Use 70% Isopropyl Alcohol for Nails Safely
Using 70% isopropyl alcohol for nails is relatively straightforward, but there are some things you should keep in mind to ensure that you’re using it safely and effectively.
First, it’s important to understand that isopropyl alcohol is flammable, so it’s important to keep it away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames.
Next, it’s important to use isopropyl alcohol in a well-ventilated area, as it can give off fumes that can be irritating to your eyes, nose, and throat. If you’re using it indoors, make sure to open a window or use a fan to help move the fumes out of the room.
Finally, when using 70% isopropyl alcohol for nails, it’s important to be mindful of the concentration. A higher concentration, like 90%, may be too harsh for some skin types, so it’s important to choose the right concentration for your needs.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to use 70% isopropyl alcohol for nails safely and effectively, so you can get the results you’re looking for.
Uses of 90% Isopropyl Alcohol for Nails
While 70% isopropyl alcohol is a great choice for many nail care tasks, there are times when you might need something a little stronger. That’s where 90% isopropyl alcohol comes in.
One of the primary uses of 90% isopropyl alcohol in nail care is for removing acrylic or gel nails. If you’ve ever tried to remove artificial nails, you know how frustrating it can be to try to get all that residue off. 90% isopropyl alcohol can make the process much easier. Simply soak a cotton pad in the alcohol and hold it against the residue for a few minutes. The residue should then wipe away easily. Keep in mind, this is after using acetone to remove most of the acrylic or gel nails first.
Another use for 90% isopropyl alcohol is as a disinfectant. If you’re dealing with a fungal or bacterial infection on your nails, 90% isopropyl alcohol can help kill the germs and prevent the spread of the infection. Simply pour a small amount of the alcohol onto a cotton pad and swipe it over the infected nails.
Finally, 90% isopropyl alcohol can also be used as a solvent. If you have any stubborn residue or glue on your nails, 90% isopropyl alcohol can dissolve it quickly and easily. Simply soak a cotton pad in the alcohol and hold it against the residue for a few minutes. The residue should then wipe away easily.
So, whether you’re removing artificial nails, dealing with an infection, or just need to dissolve some stubborn residue, 90% isopropyl alcohol is a powerful tool to have in your nail care arsenal.
How to Use 90% Isopropyl Alcohol for Nails Safely
Just like with 70% isopropyl alcohol, it’s important to take certain precautions when using 90% isopropyl alcohol for your nails.
First and foremost, it’s important to remember that 90% isopropyl alcohol is even more flammable than 70%, so be extra cautious around heat sources and open flames.
Next, it’s important to use 90% isopropyl alcohol in a well-ventilated area to avoid irritating your eyes, nose, and throat.
When using 90% isopropyl alcohol for your nails, it’s also important to be mindful of concentration. Because it’s stronger, it can be harsh on your skin if you’re not careful. So, make sure to use it in moderation and dilute it with water if needed.
By following these simple tips, you can use 90% isopropyl alcohol for your nails safely and effectively, without risking any adverse reactions or damage.
Final Notes
In conclusion, 70% isopropyl alcohol and 90% isopropyl alcohol are two popular options for cleaning and sanitizing nails. While 70% isopropyl alcohol is the more commonly used option for nails, 90% isopropyl alcohol can be a better choice for certain applications, such as removing tough stains or disinfecting surfaces.
Ultimately, the choice between 70% and 90% isopropyl alcohol comes down to your specific needs and preferences. Both options have their pros and cons, so it’s important to weigh the factors that matter most to you, such as effectiveness, cost, and safety.
So, whether you’re a nail enthusiast looking to keep your nails in top shape, or a professional in the nail industry, be sure to choose the right isopropyl alcohol for your needs and make the most of its many benefits.
