Isopropyl Alcohol Package Seals: Interaction Risk?

AI Thread Summary
Concerns have been raised about metallic package seals on isopropyl alcohol and other products flaking into the bottles, potentially contaminating the contents. There is uncertainty regarding whether the materials used in these seals could interact negatively with common skin care ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or antibiotic ointments, as well as with the alcohol itself. The discussion highlights that while companies typically conduct tests on their products, those producing lower-cost items may not adhere to the same standards, leading to potential safety issues. The conversation also references the implications of deregulation, particularly in the US and China, where cheaper and potentially harmful substances, such as wood alcohol, have been found in cosmetics, resulting in product recalls. This raises concerns about the adequacy of self-regulation in the industry and the prioritization of profit over consumer safety.
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I've noticed the metallic package seals on some bottles of isopropyl alcohol and other products tend to flake into the bottle when trying to remove it. This doesn't seem like a good thing. Could the substance used in the seal interact with common skin care ingredients, such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic (sp?) acid, or antibiotic ointments? Would it interact with the alcohol itself?
 
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Usually companies test these things but if you get the cheapie stuff they might not test it.
 
It's hard to know what's considered cheap anymore. Many stores don't carry more than one brand so there's nothing to compare with.
 
JGM_14 said:
Usually companies test these things but if you get the cheapie stuff they might not test it.
Typically, companies test only what they are required to test by regulating agencies, or they test packaging materials that could effect the efficiency and or cost of their packaging line.

We are seeing the potential result of de-regulation in the US playing out in China, as manufacturers substitute cheaper (and toxic with skin contact) wood alcohol for ethanol/isopropyl alcohols. Lots of cosmetics and skin treatments have been recalled in China recently, after wood alcohol has been detected in them. If businesses are allowed to regulate themselves, expect them to do whatever they think they can get away with to maximize short-term profits.
 

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