10 Best Rubbing Alcohol in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
So many of us also turn to rubbing alcohol as the next best alternative since you don't always have access to soap and water, especially when you're out and about. Sanitizing and disinfecting are very important to reduce the risks of contamination and getting sick. To do this effectively, you need to clean your hands and the surfaces you usually touch as often as possible. However,
Ensuring our safety is paramount, and taking extra steps to protect ourselves is always a good idea. In this article, we will tackle the important points to consider when choosing rubbing alcohol, along with our top 10 picks on the best products available online. We also asked for some tips and insights from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Erika Habaluyas Luz!
Quick List - Top Rubbing Alcohol
Hygienix
Kill 99.9% of Germs and Moisturize Your Skin with This Isopropyl Alcohol
Mighty Shield
Daily Use Alcohol That Keeps Your Skin Soft, Smooth, and Non-Greasy
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- Why You Can Trust Us
- Overview of Our Top Picks
- Uses of Rubbing Alcohol
- Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Katrina Luz
- Can Rubbing Alcohol Expire?
- Is It Better to Use Rubbing Alcohol After Washing Hands?
- How to Keep Your Hands Soft After Using Rubbing Alcohol?
- Protect Yourself From Germs and Viruses
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Overview of Our Top Picks
Kill 99.9% of Germs and Moisturize Your Skin with This Isopropyl Alcohol
Daily Use Alcohol That Keeps Your Skin Soft, Smooth, and Non-Greasy
Uses of Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol is not limited to sanitizing one’s hands. It’s a very powerful disinfectant that can kill different types of germs, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that they have a wide variety of uses. Here are some of the most common applications of rubbing alcohols.
Always a Staple in Clinics, Hospitals, and First Aid Kits
It is safe to say that you’ll never miss a bottle of alcohol when you’re in a hospital or clinic. They are commonly used in sterilizing thermometers, stethoscopes, and other non-critical medical equipment. It is also being used to disinfect the skin prior to injections and punctures.
Aside from this, rubbing alcohol is a first-aid kit essential. They are used to temporarily treat minor wounds when there is no accessible soap and water. However, you should apply it moderately as it contains chemicals that can burn the skin. It is also not advisable to apply on cuts and open wounds as it can slow down tissue regeneration.
Nothing beats washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. However, if soap and water are not available and your hands are not visibly dirty, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises the use of hand sanitizers that contain at least 60% alcohol.
It Is an Effective Cleaning Agent at Home
Rubbing alcohol is very useful when cleaning surfaces at home. It can be used as a glass cleaner, especially when mixed with vinegar. You can use it to eliminate sticky residues and marks on glass surfaces, mirrors, and windows. It is very useful in cleaning kitchen surfaces as well.
If you have greasy stoves and countertops, you can use rubbing alcohol to make them squeaky clean. It can also make your sink shiny again. Moreover, it works well with stainless-steel surfaces. However, alcohol may produce unwanted reactions when applied to certain surfaces, like plastic and wood, so it is best to perform a spot test before using it.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following: cleaning high-touch surfaces regularly or as needed, especially if you have had visitors in your home and focusing on high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, tables, handles, light switches). Make sure to clean surfaces using a product suitable for each surface to prevent damage!
Sanitizing Smartphones and Other Electronic Devices
Smartphones are considered daily essentials, especially during quarantine, because they serve as our link to the outside world. For some of us, we can’t get our hands off of our phones and gadgets. We take it almost everywhere with us, which is why it’s important to clean it all the time.
It is highly recommended to clean our gadgets at least once a day as a safety measure. To do so, you may spray a small amount of 70% isopropyl alcohol to a cloth and gently clean the surfaces of your phone. Avoid soaking the crucial parts of your phone, such as screens and ports, as they may be damaged.
Consider a wipeable cover on electronics (e.g phones, tablets) to make cleaning easier. You should also check the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning the electronic device to prevent causing damage to it.
How to Choose a Rubbing Alcohol - Buying Guide
With numerous rubbing alcohol brands in the market, finding the best one for your needs can be challenging. Consider factors such as its base and concentration, size and packaging, and additional features like scent and moisturizer. For more details, refer to our buying guide below.
A Higher Concentration Isn’t Necessarily Better—70% Is the Ideal Concentration
One of the most common misconceptions when buying alcohol is that the higher the concentration, the better. For one, solutions with a concentration of around 91% or higher take longer to disinfect than those with lower concentrations. This drastically reduces its disinfecting power.
On the other hand, a concentration lower than 50% is considered too low and becomes useless as too much water can cause the alcohol to evaporate quickly. According to health experts, 70% is the ideal concentration for disinfecting purposes. This amount of alcohol can kill organisms by penetrating the cells, denaturing proteins, and dissolving lipids.
The amount of water it has balances the overall mixture, making it dissolve more slowly and kill bacteria in the process. Overall, either too much or too little alcohol content can be ineffective in disinfecting, that’s why it would be best to select the right balance between alcohol and water levels.
In the healthcare setting, "alcohol" refers to two compounds - ethyl alcohol and isopropyl alcohol. And yes, a higher concentration does not necessarily mean better. The optimal bactericidal (aka bacteria-killing) concentration is 60-90% solutions in water.
Select the Base of Your Alcohol
Basically, rubbing alcohol is just a mixture of either isopropyl alcohol or ethyl alcohol and water. Both have germicidal properties, making them effective disinfectants. Check the section below to know the difference between the 2 types of alcohol bases.
Isopropyl-Based Alcohol for Everyday Use
The most common type of rubbing alcohol is the isopropyl-based one. Isopropyl alcohol is often used in disinfectants and sanitizers. It is also used as a cleaning agent in various settings. This is due to its effectiveness in rapidly killing certain bacteria and viruses.
If you’re looking for alcohol that you can use to clean your hands, opt for an isopropyl-based one. They are relatively milder than ethyl-based alcohol. They won’t dry out your skin as much as ethanol does, making them suitable for hand sanitizers. It also evaporates quicker than ethanol.
Isopropyl alcohol (aka isopropanol) is slightly more bactericidal (bacteria-killing) than ethyl alcohol for certain bacteria like E. coli and S. aureus.
If soap and water are not available, then you can opt to use a hand sanitizer with a final concentration of at least 70% isopropyl alcohol.
Ethyl-Based Alcohol for a Stronger Disinfectant
Ethyl alcohol is the type of alcohol found in beverages. It is denatured when used for sanitizing and also proven to kill certain types of viruses, such as herpes, enterovirus, and vaccinia. However, ethyl-based alcohol is stronger. Thus, it can dry out and irritate your skin.
Therefore, this type of alcohol is often used in heavy-duty disinfecting. Additionally, according to the World Health Organization, ethyl alcohol is more effective than isopropyl alcohol when it comes to the influenza virus.
Ethyl alcohol, at concentrations of 60 - 80%, is a strong virucidal (aka virus-killing) agent effective against certain viruses from influenza that causes the flu to that of the common cold) as well as effective against certain fungi.
If soap and water are not available, then you can opt to use a hand sanitizer with a final concentration of at least 60% ethanol.
Choose a Size and Packaging Depending on Your Needs
Rubbing alcohols come in different bottle types and sizes. The best choice really depends on how you plan to use it. For example, if you want to carry it around while traveling or doing errands, you may opt for a pocket-sized, spray-type bottle to avoid spillage. For first-aid kits and family usage at home, a medium-sized, pour-over bottle may be suitable.
As for commercial establishment settings, a large packaging with a pump is recommended as it is easier and faster to use and refill. Meanwhile, you can also opt for gallon-sized containers for refilling your containers at home.
If you're buying from a physical store, make sure to check if it is sealed properly to prevent the alcohol from evaporating quickly. Inspect the pump or nozzle as well to avoid spilling and leakage.
Choose the size and packaging based on your needs! Nowadays, we always need to have a hand sanitizer on hand - choose a spritz bottle or the usual flip-top bottle based on your convenience.
Consider an Alcohol With Scent and Moisturizer
Rubbing alcohol can come off too strong for some people. If you’re not fond of its natural scent, you may opt for a scented rubbing alcohol. Others use this to get rid of unpleasant odor since it smells like a cologne.
Alcohol can also dry and irritate your skin, especially if it is extra sensitive. To avoid this, go for a brand with aloe and other moisturizing ingredients. Thanks to this, you can keep on sanitizing your hands without having to worry about getting dry and chapped skin.
Follow up alcohol or hand sanitizer use immediately with a moisturizer. No need to fret! Using a moisturizer after does not negate your hand sanitizing efforts.
10 Best Rubbing Alcohols to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Alcohol Base | Alcohol Concentration | Moisturizing | Scented | Packaging Type | Net Content | |||||
1 | Hygienix Germ Kill Alcohol With Moisturizer | | Kill 99.9% of Germs and Moisturize Your Skin with This Isopropyl Alcohol | Isopropyl | unknown | Flip Top Bottle | 500mL | |||
2 | Mighty Shield Isopropyl Alcohol With Moisturizer | | Daily Use Alcohol That Keeps Your Skin Soft, Smooth, and Non-Greasy | Isopropyl | 70% | Flip Top Bottle | 500mL | |||
3 | Dr. Clean Isopropyl Alcohol with Moisturizer | | Medical-Grade Protection Against Germs & Viruses | Isopropyl | 70% | Screw-Cap Gallon Jug | 3785mL | |||
4 | Doctor J 70% Isopropyl Alcohol | | One Alcohol for All Your Disinfection Needs | Isopropyl | 70% | Pump Bottle | 500mL | |||
5 | Alcoplus 70% Ethyl Alcohol | | Effective Germ Protection with Skin-Caring Ingredients | Ethyl | 70% | Flip-Top Bottle | 500mL | |||
6 | FRESH Mixed Berries Alcospray | | Alcohol Spray With a Refreshing Berry Fragrance and Moisturizers | Ethyl | 70% | Spray Bottle | 500mL | |||
7 | Casino Alcohol 70% Dual Moisture | | Moisturizing Ethyl Alcohol for Sensitive Skin and Daily Hygiene | Ethyl | 70% | Bottle | 250mL | |||
8 | Cleene Ethyl Alcohol 70% | | Cologne-Scented Ethyl Alcohol From a Reputable Brand | Ethyl | 70% | Bottle | 500mL | |||
9 | Family Alcohol Isopropyl 70% Alcohol | | Large-Capacity Isopropyl Alcohol for Home and Business Use | Isopropyl | 70% | Screw-Cap Gallon Jug | 3785mL | |||
10 | Green Cross Isopropyl Alcohol With Moisturizer | | A Multi-Purpose Disinfectant That's Tough on Germs yet Gentle on Skin | Isopropyl | 70% | Bottle | 1000mL | |||
Kill 99.9% of Germs and Moisturize Your Skin with This Isopropyl Alcohol
Hygienix is known for providing simple yet effective products, ensuring they are free from harmful chemicals and eco-friendly. Their product line focuses on two key areas: personal care and surface care. In addition to rubbing alcohol, Hygienix offers a range of disinfecting products, including germicidal soap and hand and body wash.
When it comes to their rubbing alcohol, the Germ Kill Alcohol is clinically proven to kill 99.9% of germs. Beyond its germ-killing power, it contains Agenen, which helps retain skin moisture, and Vitamin E, which protects against free radicals. For maximum cleansing, pair this with their disinfecting hand soap. The alcohol is available in multiple formats, including a trigger spray bottle and 1-liter refill container.
| Alcohol Base | Isopropyl |
|---|---|
| Alcohol Concentration | unknown |
| Moisturizing | |
| Scented | |
| Packaging Type | Flip Top Bottle |
| Net Content | 500mL |
Daily Use Alcohol That Keeps Your Skin Soft, Smooth, and Non-Greasy
Check out Mighty Shield's disinfecting alcohol—an effective and affordable option! It contains 70% isopropyl alcohol, which helps combat a wide range of disease-causing germs and bacteria. Its FDA approval makes it a trusted choice in hospitals and households alike.
With a moisturizing formula, you can use it daily without worrying about dry skin. The sturdy bottle packaging ensures easy application on both skin and surfaces. Reviewers also appreciate its budget-friendly price and mild scent compared to other alcohols.
| Alcohol Base | Isopropyl |
|---|---|
| Alcohol Concentration | 70% |
| Moisturizing | |
| Scented | |
| Packaging Type | Flip Top Bottle |
| Net Content | 500mL |
Medical-Grade Protection Against Germs & Viruses
For those needing high-quality disinfection, Dr. Clean Isopropyl Alcohol With Moisturizer contains hospital-grade 70% isopropyl alcohol to keep hands and surfaces germ-free. It effectively kills bacteria and viruses while remaining gentle on the skin, thanks to its added moisturizer that helps prevent dryness.
Now available in a screw-cap gallon jug, this bulk-sized disinfectant is ideal for homes, offices, and businesses that require frequent sanitization. Its fast-evaporating formula leaves a clean feel without sticky residue, making it a practical choice for maintaining hygiene throughout the day.
| Alcohol Base | Isopropyl |
|---|---|
| Alcohol Concentration | 70% |
| Moisturizing | |
| Scented | |
| Packaging Type | Screw-Cap Gallon Jug |
| Net Content | 3785mL |
One Alcohol for All Your Disinfection Needs
Crafted with high-quality ingredients, it includes natural moisturizers to keep your skin soft and smooth. The fragrance also adds a pleasant scent, which users love. Plus, the pump bottle design makes it easy to dispense, providing a convenient and user-friendly experience.
| Alcohol Base | Isopropyl |
|---|---|
| Alcohol Concentration | 70% |
| Moisturizing | |
| Scented | |
| Packaging Type | Pump Bottle |
| Net Content | 500mL |
Effective Germ Protection with Skin-Caring Ingredients
Looking for an alcohol that disinfects while keeping your skin soft and smooth? AlcoPlus is a 70% ethyl alcohol formula that effectively kills bacteria and germs. It also includes Vitamin E, antioxidants, and a moisturizer to prevent dryness and promote healthy skin.
In addition to these ingredients, AlcoPlus also contains tea tree oil, known for its natural antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic properties. Dermatologically tested for safety, this alcohol is a popular choice, even for children, thanks to its pleasant scent and moisturizing benefits.
| Alcohol Base | Ethyl |
|---|---|
| Alcohol Concentration | 70% |
| Moisturizing | |
| Scented | |
| Packaging Type | Flip-Top Bottle |
| Net Content | 500mL |
Alcohol Spray With a Refreshing Berry Fragrance and Moisturizers
Disinfection doesn’t have to be dull—FRESH Mixed Berries Alcospray blends 70% ethyl alcohol with a refreshing berry scent to keep your hands clean and smelling great. It effectively eliminates germs and bacteria while adding a fruity touch to every spritz.
Beyond its pleasant scent, this alcohol spray contains moisturizing ingredients to help prevent dryness, even with frequent use. Its convenient spray bottle allows for easy, mess-free application, making it perfect for quick sanitation at home, in the car, or on the go.
| Alcohol Base | Ethyl |
|---|---|
| Alcohol Concentration | 70% |
| Moisturizing | |
| Scented | |
| Packaging Type | Spray Bottle |
| Net Content | 500mL |
Moisturizing Ethyl Alcohol for Sensitive Skin and Daily Hygiene
Protect your hands from germs without dryness with Casino 70% Alcohol Dual Moisture. Dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic, it’s designed for sensitive skin, providing a gentle yet effective way to stay clean. Its dual-moisture technology helps retain skin hydration, so frequent use won’t leave your hands feeling rough or irritated.
This ethyl alcohol provides thorough disinfection while being safe for both skin and surfaces. Whether for daily hand hygiene or sanitizing frequently touched items, it offers effective germ protection while keeping your skin soft and healthy.
| Alcohol Base | Ethyl |
|---|---|
| Alcohol Concentration | 70% |
| Moisturizing | |
| Scented | |
| Packaging Type | Bottle |
| Net Content | 250mL |
Cologne-Scented Ethyl Alcohol From a Reputable Brand
Cleene is a trusted name in personal care and hygiene, known for delivering high-quality products that families can rely on. Its alcohol, a favorite among many, boasts a 70% ethyl alcohol solution that effectively kills germs, providing an extra layer of protection against viral and bacterial diseases.
What sets it apart is its refreshing, cologne-like scent, which adds a touch of freshness. Customers love its mild fragrance, often mentioning how it lingers pleasantly without being overpowering. With its reliable quality and great value for money, it's no surprise that many continue to repurchase it time and again.
| Alcohol Base | Ethyl |
|---|---|
| Alcohol Concentration | 70% |
| Moisturizing | |
| Scented | |
| Packaging Type | Bottle |
| Net Content | 500mL |
Large-Capacity Isopropyl Alcohol for Home and Business Use
Containing 70% isopropyl alcohol, this disinfectant effectively eliminates germs, bacteria, and viruses while remaining safe for both skin and surfaces. It can also be used for sponge baths or to soothe insect bites and irritated skin.
Its 1-gallon size is ideal for households, offices, and businesses that require regular sanitation without frequent repurchasing. For those needing a large-capacity disinfectant that is both cost-effective and reliable, Family Isopropyl Alcohol 70% is a practical choice.
| Alcohol Base | Isopropyl |
|---|---|
| Alcohol Concentration | 70% |
| Moisturizing | |
| Scented | |
| Packaging Type | Screw-Cap Gallon Jug |
| Net Content | 3785mL |
A Multi-Purpose Disinfectant That's Tough on Germs yet Gentle on Skin
Green Cross is the favored alcohol brand for most Filipinos, synonymous with the product itself. It has an isopropyl alcohol concentration of 70%—enough to disinfect surfaces and kill most viruses and bacteria. This derma-tested and hypoallergenic alcohol is also gentle on the hands due to the added moisturizing ingredients.
Besides being an effective disinfectant, you can use it for sterilization, insect bites, prickly heat relief, and hygienic purposes. Some even use this alcohol for body massages. Since this is sold in a set of two, people find it a solid pick for an affordable price.
| Alcohol Base | Isopropyl |
|---|---|
| Alcohol Concentration | 70% |
| Moisturizing | |
| Scented | |
| Packaging Type | Bottle |
| Net Content | 1000mL |
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Katrina Luz
Here are some helpful tips as Dr. Katrina answers some of the most asked questions from the internet!
Can Rubbing Alcohol Expire?
Rubbing alcohols do have an expiration date or better referred to as shelf life. It typically has a shelf life of 2 to 3 years. After which, the alcohol starts to evaporate, and thus, may not be as effective at killing germs.
Is It Better to Use Rubbing Alcohol After Washing Hands?
Nothing beats washing your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds. However, if soap and water are not available and hands are not visibly dirty, then a hand sanitizer that contains a final concentration of at least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropyl alcohol will do. If hands are visibly dirty, always wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
How to Keep Your Hands Soft After Using Rubbing Alcohol?
Apply hand cream or lotion onto the hands while damp from washing hands or after using rubbing alcohol.
Protect Yourself From Germs and Viruses
Taking simple steps to ensure cleanliness and hygiene is crucial for overall well-being. Keep yourself and your loved ones safe with these recommended products.
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 Rubbing Alcohol
No. 1: Hygienix｜Germ Kill Alcohol With Moisturizer
No. 2: Mighty Shield｜Isopropyl Alcohol With Moisturizer
No. 3: Dr. Clean｜Isopropyl Alcohol with Moisturizer
No. 4: Doctor J ｜70% Isopropyl Alcohol
No. 5: Alcoplus｜70% Ethyl Alcohol
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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