Effective use of hand sanitizer
Since the time Covid-19 has halted normal life, one of the most frequently used words and things is the hand sanitizer. The usage is so rapid, that at one point, it almost took the place of a prized possession. Now, hand sanitizers and masks have become an integral part of our new normal lives.
But as the saying goes, too much of anything is good for nothing; it is true in the case of hand sanitizers too. When used in limited and in a cautious manner, it can have fruitful results but excessive use can be dreadful.
So, what is the best way to use hand sanitizer and how much is too much?
According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), washing hands with soap and water for 20 seconds is most preferred to wipe off all types of germs. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent of alcohol is recommended only when there is no access to running water and soap. However, it may not be effective on hands that are greasy and are visibly dirty.
Be mindful, don’t overuse: In these unprecedented times, the demand for hand sanitizers are on an all-time high. But as responsible individuals, be mindful not to overuse hand rubs. Health experts say, its overuse can kill the good bacteria that keep the skin healthy.
Use soap and water instead: The fact that this combination can wash away almost any type of germs from the surface of the hand, the use of soap and water should be the priority.
Keep the use limited: It is medically proven than using too much hand sanitizer can harm one’s skin. Skin inflammation or dermatitis, redness of the skin, dryness and in some extreme cases eczema are common problems related to excessive use of hand sanitizer.
Avoid applying large amounts: Always read the instructions given on the bottle on how much sanitizer to use on the bottle. Typically, 1 to 3 millilitres is more than enough.
Apply the hand rub thoroughly: Apply it to the palm and then rub it over the rest of the hand, just like you wash your hands until it dries off completely. Don’t forget to apply in between your fingers too.
How safe is it to use hand sanitizer
Sanitizers are made of high levels of ethyl and isopropyl alcohols, and Triclosan, which is an antibacterial ingredient. Though they are known to kill viruses, germs, they are also highly inflammable and can cause severe burns.
Swallowing alcohol-based hand rubs can cause alcohol poisoning and can be fatal. Keep it away from children and don’t leave it unattended if you have kids at home.
Precautionary measures while using hand rub
There are a few things to keep in mind when using hand sanitizers.
- Don’t use alcohol-free hand sanitizer: They are ineffective and may not work well on germs.
- Learn to apply hand rub effectively: Hand sanitizers should be applied in a way that it covers the entire surface of the hand and not just the palm. Rub it until it’s dried up.
- Always keep your hands moisturised: Frequent or excessive use can cause dryness, itchiness, redness, or irritation. Always use a good moisturiser and keep your hand supple and hydrated.
- Do not use a hand sanitizer before eating: Most of us, instead of washing our hands before eating, resort to hand rubs because of convenience reasons. But on the downside, using hand sanitizer right before eating can be harmful, especially for children. Frequent ingestion can weaken or damage the immune system making people vulnerable to diseases. It can also cause alcohol poisoning.
- Do not keep hand sanitizer in the kitchen: As mentioned above, they are highly inflammable and cause severe injury. Do not keep hand sanitizer in the kitchen and never apply it before entering the kitchen. Always keep sanitizer in a cool and dry place.
Hand sanitizers can come in optimum use only if it’s used with adequate caution. Though it is a convenient method to get rid of germs and viruses, always keep it as an option for when there is no access to soap and water.
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