Myths and Facts About Hand Sanitizers

We've all become quite familiar with hand sanitizers in recent years, haven't we? These little bottles of antiseptic gel have become our constant companions, promising to keep germs at bay. 

But how much do we really know about them? As someone who's always been curious about the products we use daily, I've decided to dive deep into the world of hand sanitizers and separate fact from fiction.

In this article, we'll explore the effectiveness of hand sanitizers and address some common safety concerns. 

We'll also look at proper usage techniques and best practices to get the most out of these handy germ-fighters. Whether you're a fan of bath and body works hand sanitizers or prefer a simple hand sanitizer spray, we'll cover it all. 

So, let's roll up our sleeves and get to the bottom of what makes hand sanitizers tick, and how they stack up against good old soap and water.

Effectiveness of Hand Sanitizers

Alcohol-based vs. non-alcohol-based

When it comes to hand sanitizers, I've found that alcohol-based formulations are generally more effective than their non-alcohol counterparts. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content . This is because alcohol-based hand sanitizers (ABHS) have excellent antimicrobial activity against a wide range of pathogens, including multidrug-resistant ones .

However, it's important to note that while alcohol-based sanitizers are highly effective against many germs, they may not work as well on certain types of viruses. Non-enveloped viruses, such as norovirus and adenovirus, show higher resistance to alcohol-based sanitizers .

Killing germs: How effective are they?

You've probably seen the claim "Kills 99.99% of germs" on hand sanitizer bottles. But what does this really mean? In laboratory conditions, hand sanitizers containing 60%-80% ethanol have shown to produce a 4 to 6 log reduction in various bacterial and fungal species within 15-30 seconds . That's pretty impressive!

However, it's crucial to understand that real-world effectiveness can differ. A study involving 8th-grade students found that the top three brands of hand sanitizer only reduced germs on their hands by 46-60% . This discrepancy highlights the importance of proper usage and understanding the limitations of hand sanitizers.

Factors affecting sanitizer effectiveness

Several factors can impact the effectiveness of hand sanitizers:

1. Dirt and grime: Visible dirt, as well as invisible substances like dust and grease, can significantly reduce the effectiveness of hand sanitizers .
2. Moisture: Water and sweat on your hands can dilute the sanitizer, making it less effective .
3. Application time: While many of us might rush through applying hand sanitizer, it's worth noting that even with an 8-second application time, there was still a greater than two-log reduction in bacteria after five serial contaminations and applications .
4. Formulation: The type and concentration of alcohol used can affect effectiveness. For instance, propanol-based sanitizers have shown to be more effective compared to ethanol-based ones in some studies .
5. Type of pathogen: While alcohol-based sanitizers are highly effective against enveloped viruses like coronaviruses, they may not be as effective against non-enveloped viruses .

It's important to remember that while hand sanitizers can be a convenient option when soap and water aren't available, they're not a perfect substitute for handwashing. 

Safety Concerns and Misconceptions

Alcohol poisoning risks

While hand sanitizers have become our trusted companions in germ-fighting, it's crucial to be aware of potential risks associated with their use. One of the most serious concerns is alcohol poisoning, especially in children. Even a small amount of hand sanitizer can cause alcohol poisoning in kids, which may lead to serious illness or even death .

The symptoms of alcohol poisoning can include loss of balance, sleepiness, low blood sugar, seizures, and coma . It's not just ethanol-based sanitizers we need to be cautious about. Some products have been found to contain methanol (wood alcohol) or 1-propanol, which are toxic substances that should never be used in hand sanitizers .

I've learned that we need to be extra careful with hand sanitizers made with isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol) around children, as these can be more toxic than those made with ethanol .

 It's also worth noting that homemade hand sanitizer recipes, while popular online, may not be the safest option. The FDA warns that if made incorrectly, these DIY sanitizers may not work effectively and could even cause skin burns .

Impact on skin health

Using hand sanitizers frequently can have an impact on our skin health. I've noticed that overuse can lead to dry, cracked skin, as well as redness, discoloration, and flaking .

This is because alcohol, while an effective antiseptic, has a drying effect on our skin. When we apply hand sanitizer multiple times a day, it's essentially stripping moisture from our skin .

Interestingly, having dry skin can actually increase our chances of picking up germs, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association . For those with eczema, the chemicals in hand sanitizers can exacerbate symptoms, leading to itchy and red or discolored patches .

Antibiotic resistance fears

There's growing concern about the potential link between increased use of hand sanitizers and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in the use of hand sanitizers and cleaning products, which some scientists worry might enhance the threat of AMR .

It's alarming to learn that the US recorded 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections in 2018 alone, with over 35,000 people dying due to resistance in the same year . The World Health Organization (WHO) has even listed AMR as one of the top 10 global public health threats .

Research has shown that some bacteria are becoming more resistant to alcohol sanitizers. For example, Enterococcus faecium, a leading cause of hospital-acquired infections, is showing increased resistance to alcohol sanitizers .

To mitigate these risks, it's crucial that we use hand sanitizers responsibly. This means following the manufacturer's instructions, avoiding dilution or combination with other products, and using them for the recommended duration of 20-30 seconds . When possible, washing hands with soap and water remains the most effective way to remove germs and prevent the spread of infections .

Proper Usage and Best Practices

When to use hand sanitizers

Hand sanitizers have become an essential part of our daily hygiene routine, especially when soap and water aren't readily available. I've found that these handy germ-fighters can quickly reduce the number of microbes on our hands in many situations . However, it's important to note that they don't eliminate all types of germs .

In my experience, there are specific instances when hand sanitizers are particularly useful. For example, when I'm out and about, and handwashing facilities aren't accessible, I reach for my trusty hand sanitizer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend using alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content in such situations .

However, I've learned that hand sanitizers may not be as effective when our hands are visibly dirty or greasy . In these cases, it's best to wash our hands with soap and water instead. This includes situations like after gardening, playing outdoors, fishing, or camping .

Correct application method

To get the most out of hand sanitizers, it's crucial to apply them correctly. Here's the method I follow:

1. Apply the hand sanitizer gel to the palm of one hand. Be sure to use the correct amount as indicated on the label .
2. Rub the sanitizer all over your hands, making sure to cover all surfaces, including between your fingers and the back of your hands .
3. Continue rubbing your hands together until they feel dry. This process should take around 20 seconds .

It's worth noting that the amount of sanitizer used can impact its effectiveness. While recommendations vary, the FDA suggests using about 2.4 mL of sanitizer for optimal results . I've found that a dime-sized dollop usually does the trick.

Combining with other hygiene practices

While hand sanitizers are convenient, they shouldn't completely replace handwashing with soap and water. In fact, hand sanitizers work best as a complement to traditional hand hygiene practices .

I've incorporated hand sanitizers into my daily routine, especially in my professional life. As a dental hygienist, I use hand sanitizers between patient visits, which helps me maintain proper hand hygiene without the time constraints of frequent handwashing .

It's important to remember that hand sanitizers might not remove harmful chemicals like pesticides or heavy metals such as lead . In these cases, thorough handwashing with soap and water is still the best option.

By combining proper handwashing techniques with the strategic use of hand sanitizers, we can significantly reduce the transmission of pathogens and keep ourselves and others healthier. Remember, good hand hygiene is a simple yet powerful tool in preventing the spread of infections.

Conclusion

Hand sanitizers have become an essential tool in our daily lives, offering a quick and convenient way to keep germs at bay when soap and water aren't available. Throughout this article, we've explored their effectiveness, safety concerns, and proper usage techniques. We've learned that while alcohol-based sanitizers can be highly effective against many pathogens, they're not a perfect substitute for handwashing and come with their own set of considerations.

As we move forward, it's crucial to use hand sanitizers responsibly and in conjunction with other hygiene practices. By understanding their strengths and limitations, we can make informed decisions about when and how to use them effectively. Remember, good hand hygiene, whether through washing with soap and water or using hand sanitizers, remains one of our most powerful tools to prevent the spread of infections and keep ourselves and others healthy.

FAQs

1. How does hand sanitizer catch fire?
   Hand sanitizer contains ethanol, which is a highly flammable liquid. This substance can ignite due to static electricity. When it burns, the flame is almost invisible and produces no smoke.
2. How long can hand sanitizer be used effectively?
   Hand sanitizer generally remains effective for 2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture. Even after the expiration date, hand sanitizer may still work to some extent, as it continues to contain alcohol, which is its active component.
3. Is using hand sanitizer better than washing hands in hospital settings?
   In hospital environments, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are recommended for cleaning hands that are not visibly dirty. This is because sanitizers are more effective at eliminating many potentially deadly germs compared to soap.
4. Why is hand washing with soap preferred over using hand sanitizers for certain contaminants?
   Hand sanitizers may not effectively remove harmful chemicals such as pesticides and heavy metals like lead. Additionally, soap and water are better at eliminating certain types of germs, including norovirus, Cryptosporidium, and Clostridioides difficile, as well as other chemicals.