One significant distinction lies in their composition and intended use. Products designed for topical application typically contain isopropyl alcohol, denatured ethanol, or a combination thereof, often rendered unfit for consumption through the addition of bittering agents. In contrast, beverages are formulated using ethyl alcohol, carefully purified and diluted for safe ingestion, subject to strict regulations regarding purity and concentration.
The divergence in purpose stems from differing properties and potential health effects. Topical solutions serve as antiseptics and disinfectants, leveraging alcohol’s ability to denature proteins and disrupt microbial cell membranes. Consumable forms, on the other hand, are metabolized by the body, leading to various physiological effects depending on dosage and individual factors. Historically, the separation between these two categories has been crucial in preventing accidental or intentional misuse of potentially harmful substances.