Can You Use Spirits as Hand Sanitizers?

Especially considering the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the global community has looked toward hand sanitizers as a key defense against the spread of the virus. However, it's important to understand the efficacy and safety of different ingredients in hand sanitizers. In this article, we explore the role of spirits in hand sanitizers and compare them with other effective and safer alternatives.

Introduction to Hand Sanitizers in the Era of COVID-19

One cannot negate the fact that hand sanitizers have become a part of our daily routine in the current context of the coronavirus pandemic. Since the outbreak, the market has been flooded with different brands and formulations of hand sanitizers, leading to a wide range of hygiene solutions.

For instance, since the outbreak of the coronavirus, countries around the world have been implementing strict pandemic control measures, including lockdowns and social distancing. As these restrictions lift, the need to maintain hand hygiene remains as crucial as it was during the peak of the pandemic. In this light, the acceptance of hand sanitizers as a routine measure has further solidified.

Ingredients and Effectiveness of Hand Sanitizers

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), alcohol-based hand sanitizers are highly effective in killing the novel coronavirus. If soap and water are not readily available, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.

Key Ingredients of Effective Hand Sanitizers

Regarding isopropyl alcohol and ethanol as the main ingredients for hand sanitizers, WHO has outlined the following:

This blend of ingredients ensures that the sanitizers not only work effectively but also provide some environmental and skin protection. The inclusion of glycerin and hydrogen peroxide helps in moisturizing the skin and reducing the risk of dehydration.

Using Spirits as Hand Sanitizers

It's understood that surgical spirit can be quite effective in sanitizing hands, but it's not without its drawbacks. Surgical spirit, primarily isopropyl alcohol, does a good job in sanitizing but can be extremely harsh on the skin. Repeated use may lead to significant skin irritation, dryness, and peeling.

While a few applications might not cause issues, regular use can lead to substantial dehydration and damage to the skin barrier. For these reasons, experts generally advice against using surgical spirit as a primary hand sanitizer, recommending instead alcohol-based sanitizers that contain the appropriate percentage of alcohol to maintain hygiene without degrading skin health.

Alternatives to Spirits for Hand Sanitizers

For those looking for safer and more effective options, there are several alternatives to spirits that do not compromise on efficacy or safety:

1. Alcohols Other Than Isopropyl

Hands-on sanitizers can use a variety of alcohols, including ethanol. Ethanol, while also derived from isopropyl alcohol, has a higher boiling point and may offer better moisture retention, making it a preferred choice for some.

2. Natural Alternatives

Natural ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, and vitamin E can be added to hand sanitizers to improve their moisturizing properties without reducing their disinfectant efficacy.

3. Homemade Hand Sanitizers

Following WHO guidelines, individuals can create their own hand sanitizer at home, using a mixture of isopropyl alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, and glycerin, which helps in maintaining skin health.

Conclusion

The global health crisis has underscored the importance of proper hand hygiene in preventing the spread of infections. While spirits can be effective in sanitizing, they are not without risk to the skin. It's crucial to use appropriate hand sanitizers that are both effective and gentle on the skin. As we move forward, maintaining hand hygiene remains a critical aspect of public health, and choosing the right hand sanitizer is a step in the right direction.