It is widely known that hands and touch can be one of the most common forms of transmissions for micro-organisms that can lead to the spread of infections and disease. In light of COVID-19, alcohol hand gels have become a staple item in many homes and workplaces as well as for people on the go. This has been reflected in the soaring sales of hand sanitizers across the globe.
When applied correctly, hand sanitizer is one of the most effective ways to quickly clean hands while on the go by destroying the bacteria on hands, which could potentially spread harmful diseases. However, there are certain ingredients to ensure your hand sanitizer is as effective as possible, as well as a thorough routine to ensure the product is being distributed thoroughly over your hands.
What Is Alcohol Gel?
Hand sanitizers can take on liquid, gel, spray, or foam forms, giving plenty of options for every workplace setting or personal usage, such as for children.
Alcohol gel is a form of hand sanitizer and is an excellent alternative if soap and water are not available, but to be most effective at killing harmful germs, it must contain at least 60% alcohol. Before usage, read the label to ensure you’re applying the recommended amount of gel, this can vary from product to product as well as adult to children hand sanitizers.
How To Apply Alcohol Gel Properly
The application of hand sanitizer is also vital to ensure your hands are being deeply cleansed. The entire process should take between 15-30 seconds; begin by applying a small amount, 3ml, in the palm of one hand, then rub both palms together while also interlacing your fingers. Then distribute the product on the backs of each hand, being sure to focus on your thumbs, fingertips, and to spread up towards the wrist too. Allow the gel to dry on all surfaces of your hands before touching anything else fully. For alcohol gels, the gel liquefies as it warms to the temperature of the skin, fills the fine lines on the hands, and then evaporates as it is spread across the skin’s surface. This action alone can kill many types of bacteria.
Despite its benefits, hand gel must only be used in cases where you cannot access soap and water. It must not be used as a replacement for antibacterial hand washing, especially in circumstances where hands are visibly dirty. Many studies show that hand sanitizers work well in clinical settings such as hospitals where germs are commonly encountered but not in dirty or greasy environments, so do not rely on hand sanitizer in these circumstances.
The use of alcohol hand gel must become a regular part of our daily routine when leaving the house in order to thoroughly protect those around us in society, especially the most vulnerable. It is through social distancing, the use of PPE, and regular applications of alcohol hand gel that could lead to the diminish of COVID-19.
