Texas Class A Barber Written ExamSanitation, Disinfection, and SafetyEasy
Which of the following is an example of an antiseptic?
- AQuaternary ammonium compounds
- BFormaldehyde
- CBleach solution
- D70% Isopropyl alcohol
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. 70% Isopropyl alcohol
Antiseptics are chemical germicides formulated for use on skin, whereas disinfectants are for inanimate surfaces. Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) is a common antiseptic used to reduce microbes on skin.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) are disinfectants for surfaces and tools, not for skin.
- B. Formaldehyde is a strong disinfectant/sterilant, generally not used as an antiseptic due to toxicity.
- C. Bleach solution is a disinfectant, not an antiseptic, and is too harsh for skin.
Antiseptic
A chemical germicide formulated for use on skin to reduce the number of microorganisms.
- Used on living tissue (skin).
- Less potent than disinfectants.
- Examples include alcohol-based hand sanitizers, hydrogen peroxide, povidone-iodine.
Memory trick: Antiseptics on my skin, Disinfectants for my tools within.