WHAT ARE ALCOHOL BASED HAND SANITIZERS MADE OF AND HOW DO THEY WORK?
Unlike a homemade hand sanitizer, commercial based alcohol hand sanitizers are typically made of isopropyl alcohol, ethanol or ethyl alcohol. They work by killing bacteria on the skin. The Center for Disease Control recommends that when you use an alcohol based hand sanitizer, make sure to rub it in all over your hands for at least 30 seconds, and then dry them thoroughly before touching anything else. This will ensure that the alcohol kills as many germs as possible. Rubbing also causes the alcohol to evaporate quickly so it doesn’t leave any residue on your skin or on objects, which can cause it to spread germs around.
ALCOHOL BASED HAND SANITIZER VS SOAP & WATER
Alcohol based hand sanitizers are more effective at killing bacteria than soap and water. However, alcohol can also be drying to the skin. Soap and water can be less effective at killing bacteria if it isn’t utilized correctly, but it is gentler on the skin.
Washing your hands with soap and water will not leave a sticky feeling on the skin. This is especially useful for people who have oily skin. The soap and water will also keep your skin hydrated just like natural moisturizers such as aloe vera.
However, alcohol based hand sanitizers have a longer-lasting effect than soap and water. This is important for people who do not have time for constant washing during their day such as nurses, doctors, surgeons and office workers among others.
On top of that, alcohol based sanitizers are not only portable but designed for on the go use as well. As such, using your own hand sanitizer is quick and convenient for when you don’t have access to soap or water.
Most importantly, a hand sanitizer offers better coverage. Some people worry that they might miss a spot while washing their hands with water or soap, but with a hand sanitizer, you can be sure that you’re getting all of your hands covered.
WHICH IS BETTER? ALCOHOL HAND SANITIZER OR SOAP & WATER?
There is a lot of debate over whether alcohol hand sanitizers are better than soap and water. Some people say that they are more effective at killing bacteria, while others maintain that soap and water is still the best way to clean your hands. The truth probably lies somewhere in the middle – both alcohol hand sanitizers and soap and water have their pros and cons.
Ultimately, it depends on what you prefer. If you want something that is easy to carry, more effective at killing bacteria, has a longer lasting effect, and offers better coverage, then go for an alcohol based hand sanitizer.
By contrast, if you want something that is gentler on your hands, and does not make your skin sticky and keeps it hydrated, then use soap and water.
CAN I USE BOTH HAND SANITIZER TOGETHER WITH SOAP & WATER?
Yes, alcohol based hand sanitizer and soap and water can be used together. In fact, they work better in combination than either one alone! By both washing hands and using hand sanitizer effectively, you will kill more bacteria while also keeping your skin clean and hydrated.
IN A NUTSHELL
Alcohol hand sanitizer Singapore can be a great alternative to soap and water. There are many reasons why it is the preferred choice for most people, so it’s worth considering this option if you want to avoid infection or illness from a contaminated surface.
However, while an alcohol based hand sanitizer is great for killing germs on the go when there’s no time to use soap and water, don’t forget to still use it with them too!