Do Bath & Body Works' Hand Sanitizing Lotions Actually Work?

The Effectiveness of Lotion-Based Hand Sanitizers

Hand hygiene has become more important than ever in recent years due to viral outbreaks like COVID-19. Health organizations universally recommend washing hands frequently with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap is not available. However, traditional hand sanitizers can dry out skin, leading some consumers to seek out more moisturizing options.

One popular option is lotion-based hand sanitizers, often scented products, that combine germ-killing alcohol with skin conditioners like vitamin E and shea butter. Brands like Bath & Body Works offer a wide selection of sanitizing hand lotions and sprays. But do these products actually work to eliminate germs while hydrating skin?

How Hand Sanitizers Work

The CDC recommends using hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content, as this concentration has been found effective at killing most disease-causing germs. Alcohol denatures proteins in the cell walls and membranes of bacteria and viruses. This disrupts their structure and renders them unable to function or reproduce.

Moisturizing ingredients like glycerin and essential oils do not impact the sanitizing ability of alcohol. As long as a hand lotion contains at least 60% alcohol, it will be just as effective at eliminating germs as a formula without any skin conditioners.

Benefits of Hand Sanitizer Lotions

Lotions have two major advantages over regular gel hand sanitizers:

• Softer feel: Ingredients like vitamin E, aloe vera, glycerin, and plant oils hydrate, nourish, and protect skin, leaving hands feeling soft.
• Prevents dryness: Alcohol-based gels can dry out skin with frequent use. Lotions counteract this effect by replenishing lost moisture.

For those concerned about skin health or those susceptible to conditions like eczema, the hydrating formula of lotion sanitizers makes them an attractive option over traditional sanitizing gels.

Bath & Body Works Hand Sanitizing Lotions

Bath and Body Works offers one of the largest selections of hand sanitizing lotions, with a variety of scents perfect for any mood or season. Their collection includes hydrating ingredients like:

• Vitamin E: A natural skin nutrient with antioxidant properties.
• Shea butter: Softens and moisturizes skin.
• Cocoa butter: Softens skin and retains moisture.
• Glycerin: Draws moisture into the skin's outer layer.
• Essential oils: Soothe, nourish, and fragrance skin.

Types of Bath & Body Works Sanitizing Lotions

Bath & Body Works offers hand lotions, cream washes, and sprays with 60-65% alcohol to kill germs swiftly. Their most popular formulas include:

• PocketBac Hand Sanitizing Lotions - Portable 0.5 oz lotions in scents like Japanese Cherry Blossom and Cucumber Melon.
• Travel-Size Hand Sanitizing Lotions - 1-1.5oz bottles perfect for carrying in bags or cars.
• Full-Size Pump Bottle Hand Sanitizing Lotions - Keep these 8oz bedside or load up your bathroom sinks!
• Waterfall Foaming Hand Sanitizer Lotions - Features a touch-free dispenser and rich lather.

Spray options are available too for easy, targeted application wherever germs linger.

Do Bath & Body Works Hand Sanitizing Lotions Work?

Yes! Independent lab testing has confirmed that Bath & Body Works hand sanitizing lotions reduce 99.9% of common germs within 15 seconds, meeting CDC recommendations.

Users find these lotions gentle on skin while still effectively sanitizing. The hydrating formula counteracts drying and leaves hands soft. Many prefer the gentleness over alcohol gels, especially those susceptible to cracked skin.

The festive scents give these lotions an emotional lift as well. Customers love having options matching their favorite fragrances to turn sanitizing into a more pleasant ritual.

Tips for Using Hand Sanitizer Lotions Effectively

Follow these tips when using Bath & Body Works or any hand sanitizing lotion to ensure proper hygiene:

• Apply enough lotion to thoroughly coat both hands.
• Rub hands together briskly until dry, about 15-20 seconds.
• Focus on palms, back of hands, between fingers, and under nails where germs often hide.
• Reapply after touching contaminated surfaces, before eating, etc.
• Combine with regular hand washing for best results.

As long as an antimicrobial lotion contains at least 60% alcohol, it will be effective at eliminating germs. So scent, price, and feel can help determine the best option for your sanitizing needs.

Who Might Want to Avoid Hand Sanitizing Lotions

While sanitizing lotions with normal alcohol concentrations are fine for most, some may require caution:

• Children under 6: Stick to washing hands with soap and water.
• Those allergic to specific ingredients like aloe, essential oils, etc.
• People with sensitivities needing alcohol-free options.

Consult a doctor before using any skin care product if uncertain about effects.

The Takeaway on Lotion-Based Sanitizers

When used properly, the CDC confirms that hand sanitizing lotions eliminate germs effectively while hydrating skin. Bath and Body Works offers a wide range of scents in portable and full sizes at affordable prices.

While no product can replace regular hand washing, sanitizing lotions are gentle, effective options for times soap is unavailable. Their moisturizing formulas make frequent sanitizing gentler for those concerned about dry, cracked skin.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.