Hand sanitizer is a ubiquitous product, and its widespread use has led to public inquiries about its potential impact on alcohol test results. This concern is understandable given that many hand sanitizers contain alcohol. This article clarifies how hand sanitizer might influence various alcohol tests.
Understanding Hand Sanitizer and Alcohol Tests
Hand sanitizers primarily consist of alcohol, typically ethanol (ethyl alcohol) or isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol), in concentrations ranging from 60% to 95% by volume. These alcohol compounds function as active ingredients to kill microorganisms on the skin. When it comes to alcohol detection, tests generally measure the concentration of alcohol in the body, which reflects how much has been absorbed into the bloodstream. Alcohol consumed orally is absorbed through the stomach and small intestine, then circulates in the blood, eventually reaching the lungs where it is exhaled.
Breathalyzers and Hand Sanitizer Exposure
Breathalyzers estimate a person’s blood alcohol content (BAC) by measuring the alcohol vapor in their exhaled breath. The primary concern with hand sanitizer and breathalyzers stems from direct exposure of the device or the person’s mouth to alcohol vapors. If hand sanitizer is used immediately before a breath test, alcohol residue on the hands or alcohol vapors inhaled into the mouth can temporarily affect the reading. Studies show this can lead to false positive results, with readings sometimes double the legal limit for impairment, even when no alcohol has been consumed. This effect is short-lived, as the alcohol rapidly evaporates from the mouth and hands.
Impact on Blood and Urine Alcohol Tests
Unlike breath tests, blood alcohol tests directly measure the percentage of alcohol in a blood sample; the amount absorbed from hand sanitizer through skin contact is generally negligible and insufficient to register. Even frequent application of alcohol-based hand sanitizer does not significantly raise blood alcohol levels. Urine alcohol tests, particularly those that detect metabolites like ethyl glucuronide (EtG) and ethyl sulfate (EtS), can be more sensitive to alcohol exposure. For hand sanitizer, it is primarily the inhalation of alcohol vapors, rather than skin absorption, that can lead to these metabolites in urine. A positive urine test reflects exposure to the sanitizer’s vapors rather than alcohol consumption.
Minimizing the Risk of False Positives
To minimize the risk of a false positive reading, especially on a breathalyzer, wait several minutes after using hand sanitizer before an alcohol test. Recommendations suggest waiting at least 15 to 20 minutes to allow any residual alcohol vapor to dissipate. Ensuring good ventilation and thoroughly wiping hands after use can also help reduce alcohol vapors. If asked to undergo an alcohol test, communicate recent hand sanitizer use to the testing professional. Law enforcement officers are often trained to be aware of this potential interference and may take steps, such as having the individual wait or ensuring their hands are away from the breathalyzer, to prevent inaccurate readings.