Can 75% alcohol be used to disinfect broken skin?

Generally, 75% alcohol should not be used to disinfect broken skin. In such cases, it is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly. The specific reasons are as follows:

When the skin is damaged, using 75% alcohol for disinfection is not advisable. This is because the strong irritant nature of alcohol can stimulate nerve receptors around the wound, causing significant pain. Moreover, its high concentration may damage newly formed tissue cells, thereby slowing down the natural healing process. Additionally, if signs of infection—such as redness, swelling, or fluid discharge—are present, alcohol should be avoided. Instead, a gentler disinfectant such as povidone-iodine or normal saline is recommended, and medical attention should be sought promptly for professional treatment and care.

Before using alcohol for disinfection, hands should be thoroughly cleaned and disposable gloves worn to prevent cross-infection. If the wound is severe or its condition cannot be accurately assessed, medical help should be sought immediately, and treatment should follow a healthcare professional's guidance.