What concentration of alcohol is used to disinfect implements with fine and cutting edges?

The use of 70% ethyl alcohol for disinfecting implements with fine and cutting edges is based on its effectiveness in killing a broad range of microorganisms. At this concentration, the alcohol contains enough water to slow down the evaporation process. This allows for a longer contact time with the surface of the implements, which is crucial for effective disinfection. The presence of water also facilitates the penetration of the alcohol into the cell walls of bacteria and viruses, enhancing the overall antimicrobial action.

Higher concentrations of alcohol, such as 90% isopropyl alcohol or 100% isopropyl alcohol, can evaporate too quickly, which may reduce their effectiveness as disinfectants because they do not stay on the surface long enough to achieve the desired antimicrobial effect. Lower concentrations, such as 50% ethyl alcohol, may not be strong enough to effectively kill all pathogens. Therefore, 70% ethyl alcohol strikes the right balance, making it the preferred choice for disinfecting salon tools that require precision hygiene, including those with cutting edges.