Hand Sanitizers: Benefits & Limitations

You can find hand sanitizers in the entrances to nursing homes and hospitals and many public washrooms. Hand washing is essential in reducing the transmission of harmful germs. There are times when you don't have access to soap or water or enough time to wash your hands thoroughly. Can a hand sanitizer be used as an alternative to hand washing? Will using a hand sanitizer reduce your chance of getting sick?

| Alcohol-Free Hand Sanitizers Market: Highest Growth During 2023

How they work

Hand sanitizers are designed to be used after washing hands or when soap and water are not available. They are gels that contain alcohol to kill the germs present on the skin. Alcohol works quickly and effectively to kill most viruses and bacteria. Alcohol can be very drying to the skin, so most brands of sanitizers also contain a moisturizer to minimize skin dryness and irritation.

How much should you use?

To use hand sanitizers efficiently, place a small amount (about the size of your thumbnail) on the palm of your hand and rub it all over your hands, including your nailbeds. If the gel evaporates in less than 15 seconds, you have not used enough product.

Benefits of using hand sanitizer

Let us read the numerous benefits of hand sanitizer, as well as its limitations:

1. The hand sanitizer is very effective

Most hand sanitizers sold commercially are 99.9% effective at killing germs which is far more than soap and water. This is especially important for people who aren't well-informed or efficient enough to carry out the thorough handwashing process. Hand sanitizers come in different forms, including sprays, gels, and mists. This ensures that there is full coverage of the product and that it reaches all the places that you might miss when washing your hands with soap.

2. Easy to use correctly

Hand sanitizer is generally simpler to use for it to have the desired effect. Handwashing with soap and water is essential, but many people don't wash their hands correctly or for enough time to allow the soap to take effect and kill germs. You can ensure germ-free hands by using sanitizer for yourself and your loved ones.

3. Accessible on the go

Hand sanitizers are portable, unlike soap and water, where you'll need to be near a sink or bathroom. You can carry hand sanitizers, such as antibacterial gels and travel hand sanitizer bottles, everywhere you go. They usually come in small packaging that you can keep in your car, bag, or pocket. Because of this, you can use it wherever you go, whether you're on public transport or in a public space, to eliminate germs.

4. Hand Sanitiser for different skin types

There are many hand sanitizers available in the market. You can choose from a variety of products to suit your needs and skin type. People with sensitive skin may need a sanitizer or antibacterial gel that is more gentle on the skin with minimal ingredients and does not contain any fragrance. You can also purchase a hand sanitizer that is alcohol-free and completely safe for children to protect the whole family from germs throughout the day.

5. Decreases risk of illness

Due to the portability of hand sanitizer and the various types you can buy to suit your lifestyle, you can hugely decrease your risk of becoming infected and ill. By eliminating and removing germs from your hands throughout the day in between handwashing with soap and water, you can protect yourself from becoming infected with any nasty germs.

Limitations:

Hand sanitizers may not be created equal. You should always check the label for active ingredients. You may find the alcohol content in the form of ethyl alcohol or ethanol. All forms of alcohol are acceptable. No matter which type of alcohol you choose, ensure its concentration is between 60 and 95 percent. An alcohol content lower than 60% is not sufficient to be effective.
Alcohol cannot cut through grime. To make the alcohol in the hand sanitizer effective, all dirt, blood, and soil must first be removed. Hand washing with soap and water in such instances is recommended.
Hand sanitizers are not cleaning agents and are not meant to replace soap and water but as complementary habits. Hand-washing is the best way to make sure your hands are clean properly.

What's the best hand sanitizer to use?

The best hand sanitizer for you will depend on various factors, including:

Age. For example, if you're buying sanitizer for a child, it is recommended that you purchase sanitizer designed for use by children and contain no alcohol.
Skin type. You can choose a sanitizer that contains less alcohol or one that has moisturizing properties if your skin is sensitive. This will ensure you add moisture to your skin while also killing germs.
Lifestyle or career. It is recommended to choose products with a higher alcohol content if you have a job or a lifestyle that requires you to keep a high standard of hygiene, as these products have been found to kill more variety of bacteria. If your lifestyle does not require frequent use of hand sanitizers, or you have skin problems such as dryness or irritation, you can choose a sanitizer with no alcohol or a lower level.
Personal preference. There are many antibacterial gels, creams, and sprays available in the market. You can find the best hand sanitizer that works for your skin and your lifestyle.

How long does hand sanitizer last on your hands?

Although they kill existing germs on hands, hand sanitizers do not protect your hands from germs long-term. The product will only last for a few minutes on your hands. This is why you should use it in conjunction with regular soap and water handwashing and use it frequently throughout the day.

CONCLUSION

Hand sanitizers are useful tools for preventing the spread and transmission of germs. However, they shouldn't be used as the only method of hand hygiene. Although hand sanitizers offer convenience, the benefits of washing hands with soap and water cannot be overlooked when it comes to effectively removing germs and bacteria. It is also important to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the storage and use of hand sanitizers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are hand sanitizers?

A: Hand sanitizers are alcohol-based or alcohol-free products that are used to disinfect or kill germs on your hands.

Q: Are all hand sanitizers the same?

A: Hand sanitizers can vary in their alcohol content, the type of alcohol used, and other ingredients. A hand sanitizer must contain at least 60% alcohol in order to be effective.

Q: How do I use hand sanitizer effectively?

A: To use hand sanitizer effectively, follow these steps:

Use a very small amount of the sanitizer (about a quarter of a teaspoon) on your palm.
Rub your hands together, covering all surfaces of your hands and fingers, until the sanitizer is dry.
Use enough sanitizer to cover your hands completely. Don't forget to wipe it off before it dries.

Q: Are there any safety concerns with using hand sanitizers?

A: Yes, there are safety concerns with using hand sanitizers such as:

Hand sanitizers are flammable, so keep them away from flames and heat sources.
You should not ingest hand sanitizers, as they can be toxic.
You should never use hand sanitizers on open wounds and broken skin. They can cause irritation and stinging.

Q: Can hand sanitizers expire?

A: Yes, hand sanitizers can expire. Check the expiration date on the bottle and throw away any hand sanitizer that has expired. Hand sanitizer that has expired may not be effective at killing germs.