But when it comes to inedible items such as medications and cosmetics, there is still much confusion about what is permitted and what is not. One must either get rid of it before Pesach or sell it to a non-Jew together with the rest of his chametz. There is a debate among the poskim if the prohibition of achshavei applies to items like foul-tasting pills or unflavored liquid medications. Achshavei does not, however, apply to medications or drugs. Flavored lipstick, coated tablets, flavored medications, pleasant-tasting cough syrups and the like are generally considered items which are fit for consumption.
Many products use denatured alcohol as an ingredient.
Denatured alcohol is alcohol which is mixed with small quantities of various chemicals or substances. Accordingly, whenever possible, items containing denatured alcohol should be sold with the chametz and not be used on Pesach. The issue of restorable denatured alcohol applies only to products which are in a pure liquid state. Some possible examples include cologne, hair spray, deodorants and shaving lotion. Items like creams, hand lotions and ointments do not present a problem.