Rubbing alcohol is often used for temporary relief of acne, although it is not recommended. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists' "Fact Sheet on Acne" states that rubbing alcohol will not help clear up red bumps and it is likely to cause irritation. Body piercings are open wounds that should not be exposed to harsh antiseptics like rubbing alcohol according to The Piercing Experience website. The alcohol content in rubbing alcohol can range from 70 percent to 95 percent. If rubbing alcohol is used near a piercing, the one with the lowest ethyl alcohol content should be used to minimize and reduce irritation.

Pour rubbing alcohol into the bottle’s cap or into a small bowl.

Dip the end of an ear cleaning cotton swab into the alcohol.

Lightly dab the tip of the cotton swab over the red bumps.

Do not touch the entry or exit wound of the nose piercing with the cotton swab.

Do not use rubbing alcohol as an acne treatment for more than a few days. It will dry out the skin making it appear to be working temporarily. If your skin continues to be irritated it can make the problem worse.