Hand sanitizers are a convenient and effective way to reduce the spread of germs and bacteria.
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Here's everything you need to know about them:
Purpose: Hand sanitizers are designed to kill or inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms on your hands, including bacteria and viruses, such as the common cold, flu, and even some strains of coronaviruses.
Active Ingredients: The active ingredients in most hand sanitizers are alcohol-based. Ethanol (ethyl alcohol) and isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol) are the most common alcohol types used. These alcohols are effective at killing a wide range of germs.
Effectiveness: Hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content are considered effective in killing most germs. They can be an excellent option when soap and water are not readily available.
Application: Apply a small amount (about a dime-sized) of hand sanitizer to your hands. Rub them together, covering all surfaces, including between your fingers and under your nails. Continue rubbing until your hands are dry, which should take around 20 seconds.
Types: There are two main types of hand sanitizers: alcohol-based and non-alcohol-based. Alcohol-based sanitizers are more effective at killing germs. Non-alcohol-based sanitizers may use ingredients like benzalkonium chloride but are generally less effective.
Storage: Store hand sanitizers in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Check the expiration date, and replace them if they have expired.
Safety Precautions: Keep hand sanitizers out of reach of children, as ingestion can be harmful. Also, avoid contact with your eyes, as alcohol can cause irritation.
Hand Washing vs. Hand Sanitizing: While hand sanitizers are convenient, they should not replace regular hand-washing with soap and water, especially when your hands are visibly dirty. Hand-washing is more effective at removing dirt, grease, and certain chemicals.
Overuse: Avoid excessive use of hand sanitizers, as this can lead to dry skin. Consider using hand moisturizers to prevent dryness.
Hand Sanitizers and Viruses: Hand sanitizers can be effective against viruses like the flu and many coronaviruses, but they may not be as effective against norovirus, which causes stomach and intestinal infections.
Travel and Convenience: Hand sanitizers are particularly useful when traveling, especially in situations where you may not have access to soap and water.
Hand Hygiene: Good hand hygiene, which includes both hand-washing and hand sanitizing, is crucial in preventing the spread of infections, especially during cold and flu seasons or disease outbreaks.
Pros and Cons of the Hand-washing Hand Sanitizers
Hand sanitizers have their pros and cons:
Pros:
Convenience: Hand sanitizers are portable and easy to use, making them convenient for on-the-go hygiene.
Kill Germs: They effectively kill many germs, including bacteria and viruses, when used properly.
Quick Application: Sanitizers work quickly, typically within seconds.
Less Drying: Some sanitizers contain moisturizing agents to prevent excessive skin dryness.
Cons:
Limited Effectiveness: Hand sanitizers may not eliminate all types of germs, like norovirus or Cryptosporidium.
Not for Dirty Hands: They are less effective on visibly dirty or greasy hands; washing with soap and water is necessary.
Skin Irritation: Frequent use can lead to skin dryness, irritation, or allergies for some individuals.
Resistance: Overuse of sanitizers can contribute to the development of antimicrobial resistance.
In summary, hand sanitizers are a convenient option for hand hygiene in certain situations, but they should not replace regular hand-washing with soap and water, especially when hands are visibly dirty.
Remember that hand sanitizers are just one part of a comprehensive approach to good hand hygiene. Regularly washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds remains one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of illness.
