Hand sanitizer offers a convenient method for cleaning hands when access to soap and water is unavailable. It serves to reduce the number of germs on the hands, helping to prevent the spread of illness. Many formulations rely on alcohol as a primary active ingredient to achieve their germ-reducing effects.
Standard Alcohol Levels
Effective hand sanitizers contain alcohol concentrations that ensure broad germ-killing capabilities. Health organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend using hand sanitizers with an alcohol concentration between 60% and 95%. This range is considered effective because it can kill a wide variety of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Concentrations below 60% may not be as effective, potentially only limiting germ growth rather than destroying them outright. Hand sanitizers with 80% ethanol or 75% isopropyl alcohol are within the optimal range for effectiveness.
Types of Alcohol in Sanitizers
The alcohol found in hand sanitizers commonly includes ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol. This is the same type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages. Another frequently used type is isopropyl alcohol, which is also referred to as isopropanol or rubbing alcohol. A third, less common alcohol sometimes found in formulations is n-propanol.
How Alcohol Achieves Disinfection
Alcohol works to disinfect hands by targeting the structure of microorganisms. It denatures proteins, which means it causes them to unfold and lose their function. Alcohol also dissolves the lipid (fatty) components of cell membranes in bacteria and the outer envelopes of certain viruses. This disruption of the cell structure leads to the inactivation or death of the germ. The presence of some water in alcohol solutions is important for this process, as it helps facilitate the denaturing of proteins.
Alternative Formulations and Safe Handling
Beyond alcohol-based products, non-alcohol hand sanitizers are available, often using active ingredients such as benzalkonium chloride. This compound works by disrupting the protective outer lipid coating of bacteria and viruses, similar to how alcohol affects cell membranes. The CDC recommends alcohol-based sanitizers for their effectiveness against a wider range of microbes.
Proper and safe handling of hand sanitizers is important. For effective use, apply enough product to cover all hand surfaces and rub until dry, which takes about 20 seconds.
Hand sanitizers, particularly those with high alcohol content, are flammable, so they should be stored away from heat and open flames. Supervise young children using hand sanitizer to prevent accidental ingestion, as swallowing even small amounts can lead to alcohol poisoning. Regular use of alcohol-based sanitizers can sometimes lead to skin dryness, though many formulations include moisturizers like glycerin to help mitigate this effect.