Assessing The Effectiveness Of Hand Sanitizer Lotions
Hand hygiene is essential for reducing the spread of illness and infection. Traditional hand sanitizers play a key role in killing germs, but they can also dry out skin. This leaves many people searching for sanitizing products that add moisture. Hand sanitizer lotions aim to provide the best of both worlds. But do they work as well as regular sanitizers? Here is an in-depth look at the pros, cons, and effectiveness of hand sanitizer lotions.
How Hand Sanitizer Lotions Work
Hand sanitizer lotions contain both alcohol-based sanitizers and hydrating ingredients like oils, aloe vera, and shea butter. The alcohol kills germs, while the moisturizers help counteract dryness. Some lotions also include vitamins, herbs, or antibacterial agents for extra germ-fighting power.
When shopping, look for a sanitizer lotion containing at least 60% alcohol. This ensures it meets CDC guidelines for reducing microbes. Also verify it can kill common viruses and bacteria like flu, cold, strep, E. coli, and salmonella.
Benefits Of Hand Sanitizer Lotions
Combining sanitizing and moisturizing brings several advantages:
Convenience
You can clean and hydrate in one easy step instead of using separate products. Just squirt some lotion and rub thoroughly into hands.
Portability
Small portable sizes fit easily in bags, lockers, and cars for sanitizing on-the-go. No need to carry both a sanitizer and lotion bottle.
Moisturizing
The oils and butters counteract drying alcohol, helping retain natural moisture in skin. This prevents cracks, irritation, and discomfort.
Healing
Ingredients like aloe, vitamin E, and green tea may help soothe and heal existing dry, cracked, or inflamed skin. The moisture supports skin barrier renewal.
Pleasant Texture
Lotions feel smooth, soft, and silky rather than sticky or tacky like some sanitizers. This makes thorough hand coverage easier.
Drawbacks Of Hand Sanitizer Lotions
However, some potential drawbacks exist:
Effectiveness Questions
Some data shows sanitizer lotions may not reduce microbes as much as regular sanitizers. The moisturizing components may dilute germ-killing power.
Reapplication Needs
For full protection, reapply after about 2 hours. Moisturizing effects wear off quickly. Frequent reapplication can mean more drying alcohol exposure overall.
Residue Buildup
Ingredients may leave a residue that builds up with repeated use. This can lead to breakouts or irritation for those with sensitive skin.
Higher Cost
The special formulas mean hand sanitizer lotions often have a higher price tag than regular sanitizers.
Allergic Reactions
The nuts, plants, and scents used in some lotions may cause allergic reactions in those with sensitivities. Test a small patch first.
Maximizing Effectiveness And Skin Health
While hand sanitizer lotions offer a good balance for many, some extra steps can boost their performance and skin safety:
Check Alcohol Concentration
Again, look for a minimum 60% alcohol to ensure effective killing of germs and viruses. Higher alcohol content is even better.
Rotate Products
Switch regularly between lotions, moisturizing sanitizers, and traditional sanitizers. This prevents any one formula from irritating skin over time.
Reapply Frequently
Every 2 hours is ideal for maximum microbe reduction. Set phone alerts if needed to maintain vigilance.
Use Properly
Rub thoroughly over all hand surfaces and under nails. Let dry completely before touching anything, so the alcohol can fully work.
Wash Hands First If Soiled
If hands are visibly dirty or greasy, wash with soap and water before sanitizing. This removes microbes, oils, and residues that can reduce sanitizer effectiveness.
Moisturize At Night
Apply a rich night cream after your last daytime handwashing and sanitizing. This provides extended moisture while you sleep.
Avoid Excessive Washing
Wash hands before eating and after using the bathroom, but not obsessively. The latter actually removes protective oils and promotes germ growth.
Special Considerations For Skin Conditions
Those with chronic skin conditions need extra care when using hand sanitizers. Here are tips for managing key issues:
Eczema
Look for gentle, fragrance-free lotions. Moisturize after each handwashing. Choose cracked skin-healing formulas with colloidal oatmeal.
Psoriasis
Opt for non-irritating aloe-based lotions. Avoid products with drying alcohol. Moisturize frequently and use lightweight cotton gloves at night.
Contact Dermatitis
Carefully check ingredients to avoid personal allergens. Stick to simple, fragrance-free lotions. Restore moisture after flare-ups with thick emollient creams.
Dry, Aging Skin
Pick lotions rich in shea butter, antioxidants, ceramides and hyaluronic acid for extra hydration. Gently wash hands in lukewarm water - hot water strips natural oils.
Who Should Use Hand Sanitizer Lotions
Here are some groups who may benefit most from hand sanitizer lotions:
Those With Chronically Dry Hands
The moisturizing effects make these ideal for people prone to cracked, irritated skin that is worsened by regular sanitizer use.
Healthcare Workers
Frequent handwashing and sanitizing is essential for doctors, nurses, and other professionals. The lotions prevent the inevitable dryness.
Food Service Workers
Those preparing and serving food need frequent sanitizing. Lotions allow for germ removal without chapped, painful hands from cleansing.
Parents And Teachers
Caring for children with runny noses means repeated hand sanitizing. Lotions allow for germ protection without skin damage.
Travelers
Portability makes these ideal for keeping hands germ-free while navigating airports, public transit, and other infectious environments.
Shopping For The Best Hand Sanitizer Lotions
Choosing the right product involves comparing ingredients, effectiveness, price, brand reputation and other factors. Here are some top options to consider:
Touchland Power Mist Sanitizing Hand Lotion
This spray lotion contains 70% alcohol plus aloe vera for quick drying and softness. Its portability and stylish look appeal to many users.
EO Botanical Hand Sanitizing Lotion
Natural plant oils and extracts hydrate while essential oils give an energizing aroma. EO products meet EWG health standards.
Suave Hand Sanitizing Lotion
This affordable drugstore brand combines aloe, vitamin E and retinol for moisturizing and smoothing. The light formula absorbs quickly.
Gold Bond Ultimate Healing Hand Sanitizer Lotion
This dermatologist-tested lotion relieves dryness with aloe, shea butter and vitamins A, C and E. The flip-top cap prevents contamination.
Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer Refreshing Gel Lotion
Purell's patented formula kills 99.99% of germs with 70% ethyl alcohol while adding moisturizers for comfort and skin conditioning.
The Bottom Line
Hand sanitizer lotions provide a practical way to clean hands while adding hydration. Their convenience and portability encourages better hand hygiene away from sinks. While not quite as powerful at reducing germs as regular sanitizers, they still provide substantial antibacterial benefits. With wise ingredient selection and proper usage techniques, hand sanitizer lotions can be part of an effective hand hygiene routine for many situations and skin types.
FAQs
Are hand sanitizer lotions as effective as regular sanitizers?
Hand sanitizer lotions may not reduce microbes quite as much due to moisturizing ingredients diluting the alcohol. But they still provide substantial germ killing power when used properly.
How often should you reapply hand sanitizer lotion?
For full effectiveness, reapply about every 2 hours or more frequently if hands get dirty. The moisturization tends to wear off quickly.
Who benefits most from hand sanitizer lotions?
Those prone to dry, cracked skin like healthcare workers, food service workers, travelers, and parents can benefit. Also ideal for those with eczema, psoriasis, or aging skin.
What should you look for in hand sanitizer lotions?
Check for 60%+ alcohol content, moisturizers like aloe vera and shea butter, portability, and ability to kill common germs and viruses. Avoid fragrances if you have sensitive skin.
Can children and pregnant women use hand sanitizer lotions safely?
Yes, but supervise child use. Look for gentle, fragrance-free lotions. While safe for most, those pregnant or breastfeeding should still consult their doctor.
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.
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