All about hand sanitizer

Did you know?

When tested in the laboratory, alcohols -- like those found in alcohol-based hand sanitizer -- have excellent germ-killing activity against many bacteria.  Certain viruses are also killed by alcohols when tested in laboratories. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer can quickly kill germs when applied to the skin. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can provide a convenient alternative to hand washing when you are not near a sink with soap and water.  They come in small travel sized containers that can fit in your pocket, handbag, or backpack; these can be used as soon as you need to clean your hands after touching something that may have been contaminated with germs.

Some downfalls of hand sanitizer:

Unfortunately, frequent use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers may make your hands dry and uncomfortable.  Because of this, there are many new formulations of hand sanitizers that have lotions and other emollients added into the product.  If you find yourself irritated with dry hands after using hand sanitizer, try one that has lotion in it, or just use lotion on your hands after you've cleaned them. Some people do not like the smell of alcohol-based hand sanitizers.  Luckily, there are many that are now being made by companies that smell much better.  Check out your local drug store or body product store to find different types of hand-sanitizer products that appeal to you. Be careful!  Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are flammable and should be kept away from high temperatures and flames!

Worried about antimicrobial resistance?

• Good for you!  Antimicrobial resistance to products like anti-bacterial soap and other substances is an important public health concern.  There have been some reports of bacteria becoming resistant to certain antiseptic products; however, it is believed that the high antiseptic concentration found in alcohol-based hand sanitizers used by health care workers is much higher than what the resistant strains can tolerate.  At the moment, the effects of alcohol-based hand sanitizer on the creation of resistant viruses is unknown.  For more information on anti-bacterial resistance, click here.