A hand sanitizer is usually an alcohol-based gel, liquid, or foam that is used to eliminate the presence of infectious agents such as germs and bacteria on the hand. It is useful especially in situations where soap and water which is still the preferred method of hand cleaning are not available; situations such as when one is in transit or in places without access to water. Unlike soap and water, it is less effective in killing certain types of germs and it might not be able to remove harmful chemicals.

For places such as health care centers and for moving around, they are most times the preferred or the only available way of disinfecting your hands. They may also be better tolerated in these kinds of situations.

Most sanitizers are a combination of ethyl alcohol (ethanol) which is used as an antiseptic, isopropyl myristate, water, and glycerin which makes it soothing on the skin as well as preventing dryness. It could also contain some other ingredients. It can either be left unscented or it can be scented by the addition of a fragrance. Although most are clear liquids or gels, some manufacturers may add a bit of colouring. Note that not all hand sanitizers are alcohol-based.

Alcohol-based sanitizers with as much as 60% - 90% of alcohol are the most effective as they are able to kill a wide range of microorganisms while those without alcohol are not as effective. They contain benzalkonium chloride or triclosan instead.

When using an alcohol-based solution, there is a need to be careful around a fire as it can be flammable. Ensure that is dried off your hand before approaching any open fire. You can learn more in this article.

Uses and importance of Hand Sanitisers

There are germs present virtually at every turn. As people go about their daily activities, they come in contact with these microorganisms that can be harmful. To a large extent, the human body can fight off these germs and prevent getting infected with diseases but continuous and constant exposure will eventually lead to getting infected. Also, there are some microorganisms that the body might not be fully immune to and contact with them will result in sickness or disease.

Every day, people shake hands, use the restroom, and touch different surfaces. These are all ways a person can come in contact with germs as well as bacteria. This is why it is essential to ensure the hands are cleaned often and when soap and water are not available, sanitizers can serve as an alternative till the person is able to get water and soap for proper washing.

In essence, they are useful for stopping the spread of germs especially in busy environments such as hospitals, offices and schools as well as for promoting good health and hygiene.

You can read more on its importance here https://www.wphealthcarenews.com/9-important-benefits-of-using-hand-sanitizer/.

How to Use a Hand Sanitiser Effectively

To use it effectively,

• Apply a moderate amount of it into either of the palms then rub the palms together.

• Work it in-between the fingers and at the back of your palms reaching the wrist.

• Ensure to keep rubbing until it dries off. The alcohol content helps it to dry off quickly if you have not applied too much of the solution.

Hand sanitizers are not meant to clean dirty or greasy hands. You need soap and water to clean these instead.

Unscented sanitizers are often best for people who are allergic. These can come in various sizes and brands. While some bottles are designed to be stationed at strategic locations and used there, some are designed to be carried around in your bags or even pockets such as the unscented 8 Oz hand sanitizer from moxe.com.

These smaller sizes are cool to carry around to ensure that you are shielded at all times. With it, you have no excuse for not having a hand sanitizer on you.

Conclusion

These days, hand sanitizers are becoming popular as well as effective especially due to the coronavirus pandemic. It is essential that you carry one on you at all times so that you can be effectively covered against germs and diseases even when no soap and water is available. The smaller sizes like the 8 Oz enable you to do this.