The Truth About Hand Sanitizers - Are You Using the Right One?
COVID-19 has taught us how important a sanitizer is. While these bottles existed before, it was the pandemic that made us the pros at squeezing sanitizer onto our palms without a second thought. Now, we have it in our bag, car, desk, and everywhere around.
However, isn’t it questionable if we are actually using the right kind of hand sanitizer? Are we using it the right way? Is it even safe to use it so frequently? What if the sanitizer that is supposed to kill germs is killing your skin, too?
The right sanitizer is the one that works for your environment. It depends on whether you are looking for sanitizer wholesale near me or something for personal use. Let’s figure out what’s best for you by comparing two major types of hand sanitizers: alcohol-based and HOCl.
Why Hand Sanitizers Matter
Undoubtedly, washing hands with soap and water is still the gold standard. However, while on the go, when these are not available, a hand sanitizer is the best alternative.
But let’s see if you are using it the right way. For any sanitizer to work effectively, you need to:
Use generously to cover front, back, between fingers, and under nails.
Rub for at least 20 seconds until your hands are dry.
Don’t wipe it off or wave your hands to dry faster, this reduces effectiveness.
Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers
All the major alcohol-based sanitizers consist of ethanol or isopropanol, and of course, alcohol from about 60% to 95%. They work through a process known as denaturation. In this, the alcohol in the sanitizer breaks down to destroy the outer structures of germs, killing them effectively.
Pros:
Rapid Action: Alcohol based sanitizers act quickly on germs.
Availability: They are easily and widely available as they’ve been the default for many years.
Cons:
Dehydrated Skin: Repeated use can cause dryness, cracking, redness, or irritation, especially on sensitive skin.
Effectiveness: They are not effective for pathogens that an lack an outer lipid layer.
Flammability: Because of high alcohol content, they are flammable. So, it demands extra storage care to avoid heat and fumes.
Added Fragrances: To rule out the smell of alcohol, these disinfectants often include synthetic additives that can dry out your skin or trigger allergies.
HOCl-Based Hand Sanitizers
Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is another active agent. It’s a weak acid formed when chlorine dissolves in water, and it has antimicrobial properties. Because it’s gentle on skin (in many formulations) yet effective, it’s been gaining attention as an alternative to alcohol.
For reference, HOCL stands for hypochlorous acid. It is an acid formed in our body via white blood cells to kill germs and fight infections naturally. This weak acid can now be created in labs by running an electric current through salt water. This acid works as a powerful disinfectant in multiple settings, like hospitals, wound care, and more.
Pros:
Gentle on Skin: HOCl-based sanitizers are gentle on skin and do not cause skin irritation, even if used frequently.
Better Performance: Studies suggest that HOCL has better performance, as your immune system already trusts it as a disinfectant.
Non - flammable: Because there is no alcohol involved, there’s no risk of fire.
Multifunctional: It can be used in multiple settings, including baby care, skin care, hospital-grade sanitization, pet care, minor wound care, and all types of surfaces.
Cons:
Variability: Not all HOCl sanitizer products are created equal. The pH stability and its concentration decide the effectiveness.
Limited Standardization: Like alcohol sanitizers, there’s no official regulation for the concentration of HOCL.
Less Shelf Life: The saltwater in HOCL can break down when exposed to heat, sunlight, or air, reducing its effectiveness.
Final thoughts
Not all sanitizers are the same, and the cheapest one isn’t always the best choice. Choose a sanitizer according to your specific use case, skin sensitivity, and comfort.
But if you want a sanitizer that doesn’t smell bad, leaves no residue behind, dries quickly, is non-toxic, skin-friendly, and more effective, switch to the HOCL formulation. But, remember to keep it away from heat and air.
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