Hand sanitizer has become a common product for maintaining hygiene, particularly when soap and water are not available. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a prevalent inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and sometimes inflamed skin. Many wonder about the potential connection between frequent hand sanitizer use and the onset or worsening of eczema symptoms. This article explores how hand sanitizer impacts skin health.
How Hand Sanitizer Affects Skin
Hand sanitizers can significantly affect the skin’s natural protective barrier. The alcohol, typically ethanol or isopropanol, works by dissolving the lipid membranes of microorganisms. However, this same mechanism also impacts the skin’s own lipid layers.
Repeated exposure to these alcohols can strip away these protective lipids, leading to a reduction in the skin’s natural moisturizing factors and an increase in transepidermal water loss (TEWL). This disruption compromises the skin barrier, making it more susceptible to dryness, irritation, and inflammation. A weakened skin barrier is less effective at retaining moisture and protecting against external irritants, which can exacerbate existing skin conditions or trigger new ones like irritant contact dermatitis. Studies have shown that healthcare workers, who frequently use hand sanitizers, often experience increased TEWL and a higher incidence of irritant contact dermatitis, even with the use of emollients.
Ingredients That Can Irritate Skin
Beyond the drying effects of alcohol, other ingredients in hand sanitizers can contribute to skin irritation or allergic reactions. High concentrations of alcohol can directly irritate the skin, especially if the skin barrier is compromised. Their dehydrating properties can lead to dryness, itching, and cracking.
Many hand sanitizers contain added fragrances. Fragrances are among the most common causes of contact allergies and can trigger allergic contact dermatitis, leading to symptoms like intense itching, redness, swelling, and bumps. Dyes are sometimes added but can also cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Preservatives, such as parabens or formaldehyde-releasing agents, are included to prevent microbial growth but can also be sensitizers, potentially leading to skin irritation or allergic responses. Avoiding products with these known irritants is important for individuals with sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
Managing and Preventing Hand Sanitizer-Related Skin Issues
To mitigate skin issues associated with hand sanitizer use, several proactive steps can be taken. When possible, prioritize hand washing with mild soap and lukewarm water for at least 20 seconds, as this is less irritating than hand sanitizers. After washing, gently pat hands dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing vigorously, as this can further irritate the skin.
If hand sanitizer is necessary, select formulations with an alcohol content of at least 60%, as this range is effective against germs while being less irritating. Look for hand sanitizers that include moisturizing ingredients, such as glycerin, aloe vera, or safflower seed oil, which help to counteract the drying effects of alcohol and support the skin barrier.
Apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer immediately after using hand sanitizer or washing hands to replenish lost moisture and protect the skin barrier. For persistent dryness or irritation, apply a thick emollient, like petroleum jelly, before bedtime and cover hands with cotton gloves for intensive hydration. If severe reactions occur, such as intense itching, significant swelling, deep cracks, or bleeding, stop using the product and consult a dermatologist for advice and treatment, which may include steroid creams.