Hand Sanitizers

Hand sanitizers are products that contain antiseptic ingredients that can kill or prevent the growth of microorganisms on the hands. Hand sanitizers can be used when soap and water are not available or when frequent hand washing damages the skin. Hand sanitizers can help prevent the spread of infections, such as COVID-19, cold, and flu.

Hand sanitizers can come in different forms, such as foam, gel, liquid, spray, or wipes. They can also have different ingredients, such as ethanol (ethyl alcohol), isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol), benzalkonium chloride, or natural substances. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends hand sanitizers that contain at least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol to be effective against germs.

Hand sanitizers can be classified as one of two types: alcohol-based or alcohol-free.

• Alcohol is commonly found in alcohol-based goods at concentrations of 60 to 95 percent, often as ethanol, isopropanol, or n-propanol. Alcohol instantly denatures proteins in those quantities, essentially neutralizing several forms of bacteria.
• Products without alcohol are often based on antimicrobials like triclosan or disinfectants like benzalkonium chloride (BAC). Disinfectants and antibacterial substances operate immediately and persistently. Emollients, such as glycerin, that soothe the skin, thickening agents, and scent are other common ingredients in hand sanitizers.