Hand Sanitizer Information

The purpose of hand sanitizer, also known as antiseptic, is to kill large amounts of bacteria and viruses. The main ingredient in alcohol rubs sold in the United States are isopropanol or ethanol. Hand sanitizer can be used in addition to, or in place of, hand washing. Studies show that alcohol is more successful than soap at killing germs. Alcohol is also less drying to the skin than soap.

How It's Packaged

• Hand sanitizer comes in small bottles that can be easily transported in a purse or even attached to a key chain. It comes in gels, foams, liquids and wipes. It can be kept in any room of the house, in an office and car. Using hand sanitizer to prevent the growth of bacteria is as easy as rubbing the solution on hands for about 30 seconds. When used properly, hand sanitizer has been shown to be as effective as using soap and water.

How It Works

• Alcohol, the main ingredient in hand sanitizer, slows the development of bacteria and eliminates viruses. Rubbing sanitizer on the hands also prevents the transfer of germs to the nose, mouth and eyes.

Uses

• Hand sanitizer can be used for periodic hand cleansing. It is also recommended for the prevention of colds and flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has even approved hand sanitizer for preventing the spread of swine flu.

Brand Names

• Different brands include Germ-X, Purell, Sani Hands and Method. There is very little variation in the active ingredients in name-brand sanitizers. The main difference is the method in which the product is dispensed.

Warnings

• Alcohol is a highly flammable substance. Precautions must be taken if using antiseptic rubs around fire and sparks. Further, the American Association of Poison Control Centers reported 12,000 cases of poisoning from hand sanitizers in 2006. More than 6,000 cases were reported of children ingesting hand sanitizer in 2007. A 2-oz. bottle of hand sanitizer is equivalent to 4 shots of vodka.