Some of us can’t live without hand sanitizer. We carry it everywhere we go so we can use it after coming out of a public washroom or even after opening doors. When sanitizing your hands, it’s essential to use a hand sanitizer containing alcohol, killing germs and preventing dry patches.
The best hand sanitizers will leave no residue after use, and many of these products contain alcohol (usually isopropanol or ethanol).
Alcohol dissolves the outer coating of bacteria and viruses and explodes them. Ethanol and isopropanol can dry out your skin. Glycerol helps counteract that effect. The effectiveness of any hand sanitizer will depend on the quantity used, duration, and frequency. If the sanitizer is efficiently rubbed on your fingers and hand surfaces for about 30 seconds and then air-drying it, it would be effective in reducing bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
For a hand sanitizer to be effective, it must have 60% alcohol or higher, which will kill 99.99% of bacterial germs and leave a non-sticky residue. These products are recommended for use in hospital and care home settings.
If you have sensitive skin or an allergy, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are the best option for you. These are safe and effective against germs, fungi, and viruses. Most hand sanitizers can be harsh on the skin. However, they may not kill all microorganisms consistently.
While many hand sanitizers contain alcohol, you should avoid any hand sanitizers, including methanol. Methanol is a dangerous substance. It can cause severe side effects when absorbed through the skin. It can also lead to blindness if swallowed. The FDA has issued a list of the best hand sanitizers, and you should look for methanol-free products.
The best hand sanitizers will contain at least 60% alcohol. It is recommended that you use enough of the product to coat your hands. It’s essential to rub the sanitizer well and wait to dry. The type of sanitizer with the highest alcohol concentration can also be very drying, so look for one with calming ingredients and moisturizers.
Table of Contents
We have listed below the most popular brands for hand sanitisers available in the market for you to try.
Cipla Ciphands Antiseptic Instant Protection Hand Sanitizer Gel
Features
- Kill 99.99% of germs
- Rinse free and instant liquid hand sanitiser with 72.3% alcohol
- Moisturising ingredients for water retention & hydration
- Instant action formula
Lifebuoy Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitiser
Features
- It kills 99.9% of bacteria and viruses without water
- The alcohol content is over 60%
- It gives you instant germ protection
- Lifebuoy Antibacterial Hand Sanitizer has Glycerine; it leaves your skin feeling moisturised
- A quick-drying, non-sticky formula
Dettol Clinical Strength Hand Sanitizer Liquid
Features
- Broad-spectrum antimicrobial hand disinfectant
- It kills 99.99% of germs
- Alcohol-based hand rub, gentle for everyday use
- Enriched with moisturiser
- The alcohol content is over 70%
Wellcare Hand Sanitizer Spray
Features
- With 80% extra-neutral Ethyl Alcohol
- Clinically proven germ kill action
- Light, non-sticky moisturisation
- Fine mist sprays ensure even spread across the hand
- It comes in three delightful fragrances
Savlon Hexa Advanced Hand Sanitizer Liquid
Features
- It kills 99.99% of germs without having to use soap or water
- 70% alcohol-based and contains Chlorhexidine Gluconate (CHG)
- Dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types
- Liquid-based sanitiser
The CDC asserts that hand sanitizer does effectively kill germs and is a good alternative to soap and water when one is unable to wash hands the usual way. Still, hand sanitizer is definitely not a magical elixir – regardless of what the bottle claims. When it comes to personal hygiene, hand washing is a must. Using hand sanitizers every day can cause skin irritation and dryness. It is advisable to use hand sanitizers to a minimum when washing your hands with soap and water is an option.
Stay safe.
