Hand sanitizer is a product designed to reduce infectious agents on the hands. It serves as a practical alternative for hand hygiene when traditional soap and water handwashing is not feasible. This antiseptic liquid, gel, or foam helps maintain cleanliness in various settings, offering a convenient method for hand decontamination on the go.
How Sanitiser Works
Most effective hand sanitizers contain alcohol, typically ethyl alcohol or isopropyl alcohol. Alcohol concentrations ranging from 60% to 95% are recommended for optimal germ-killing ability.
These alcohol molecules work by denaturing proteins, disrupting their normal structure within bacterial and viral cells. They also dissolve the lipid membranes that surround many pathogens, breaking down their outer protective layers. This dual action leads to the rapid inactivation or death of a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including many bacteria and enveloped viruses.
Alcohol-free hand sanitizers, often containing compounds like benzalkonium chloride, operate differently by interfering with microbial cell functions, but their efficacy can vary compared to alcohol-based types.
Proper Application Technique
Effective hand sanitization begins with applying a sufficient amount of product to one palm, enough to wet both hands completely. Rub your hands together vigorously, ensuring the sanitizer covers all surfaces, including the back of your hands, between your fingers, and under your fingernails. Continue rubbing your hands until the sanitizer has completely dried. Allowing the hands to air dry is important; do not wipe the product off, as this can reduce its effectiveness. The entire process should take about 20 seconds.
Sanitiser Versus Handwashing
While hand sanitizer offers convenience, washing hands with soap and water remains the preferred method for hand hygiene. Soap and water are superior at physically removing visible dirt, grime, and grease from the hands. This physical removal process is effective for eliminating a wider range of germs and chemicals. Handwashing works by creating a lather that lifts and rinses away microorganisms and debris. In contrast, hand sanitizers primarily kill germs but leave their remnants on the skin.
Certain types of pathogens are less susceptible to alcohol-based sanitizers. For instance, norovirus and Clostridium difficile (C. diff) are not effectively inactivated by most hand sanitizers. Therefore, when these specific pathogens are a concern, or when hands are visibly dirty, thorough handwashing with soap and water is necessary. Hand sanitizer serves as a practical alternative when soap and water are unavailable, such as during travel or when out in public, but it is not a complete substitute.
Limitations and Safety Considerations
Hand sanitizers are not effective on visibly dirty or greasy hands. The presence of dirt, food, or other organic matter can create a barrier, preventing the alcohol from reaching and inactivating germs.
Frequent use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers can lead to skin irritation, dryness, and cracking. This is due to alcohol stripping away the natural oils from the skin, which can compromise the skin’s protective barrier.
Another concern involves accidental ingestion, especially by young children. Sanitizers often contain high concentrations of alcohol, and even small amounts can cause alcohol poisoning. Keeping these products out of reach of children is recommended.
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also flammable liquids. They should be stored away from heat and open flames, and hands should be completely dry before handling ignition sources.