Can Hand Sanitizer Heal Wounds? The Effects on Cuts and Abrasions

The Effects of Hand Sanitizer on Wounds

Hand sanitizer has become an essential personal hygiene product in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly increased public awareness about the importance of hand hygiene in preventing the spread of germs and illness. However, many people wonder whether the high alcohol content in most hand sanitizers may actually damage skin and delay wound healing when applied to cuts or scrapes.

How Hand Sanitizer Works

Most hand sanitizers contain at least 60% alcohol, usually in the form of ethanol or isopropanol. This high alcohol concentration helps denature proteins in harmful germs and microbes on the skin's surface, neutralizing their ability to cause infections. Besides alcohol, hand sanitizers may also be formulated with additional germ-killing ingredients like benzalkonium chloride.

When we get a cut or scrape, the wound site is especially vulnerable to infection-causing bacteria and viruses. However, since hand sanitizers are not specifically designed to treat open wounds, applying these products can sometimes do more harm than good.

Potential Risks of Using Hand Sanitizer on Wounds

Applying hand sanitizer to broken skin can cause significant stinging pain. The alcohol irritates nerve endings exposed by the wound. For some people, this discomfort may delay proper wound care and healing.

Alcohol's drying effect can also damage the skin around a wound. Healthy tissues need moisture to regenerate. Dried-out skin may crack, increasing the size of the wound and risk of scarring. When wounds become larger, they require more time to heal.

Finally, while hand sanitizer does kill most germs, it does not remove harmful debris or dirt from wounded tissue. The alcohol can even trap debris inside the wound, introducing more microbes and delaying healing.

Proper Wound Care

Instead of using regular hand sanitizer, the proper way to care for a minor wound is to:

1. Wash hands thoroughly with warm water and mild soap before touching the wound.
2. Gently clean wound using cool, clean water to remove debris and disinfect.
3. Pat dry using a clean towel or gauze pad.
4. Apply antibiotic ointment and bandage to keep clean and moist.
5. Change dressing daily to monitor healing.

This method helps flush out bacteria while keeping the wound moist and protected as it heals. Seek medical care if you notice increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage which may indicate infection.

Alternatives to Regular Hand Sanitizers

To enjoy the antimicrobial benefits of hand sanitizer without irritation, some options include:

Moisturizing Hand Sanitizers

Many brands now offer hand sanitizers formulated with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera gel, vitamin E, and shea butter. The moisturizers counteract drying alcohol. These gentler sanitizers may be suitable for intact yet sensitive skin around a wound.

Benzalkonium Chloride Antiseptic Towelettes

These convenient towelettes provide gentle antimicrobial cleaning for wounds thanks to the less irritating benzalkonium chloride instead of alcohol. They help remove debris while soothing injuries.

Honey

Honey's antioxidant, antimicrobial properties make it ideal for wound care. The viscous nectar helps moisten wound tissues while fighting infection-causing microbes. Medical grade Medihoney products are available for serious wounds.

When to Call the Doctor

While most minor cuts and scrapes heal well with proper at-home care, contact your doctor if you notice any of the following:

• Increasing pain, swelling, warmth, or redness at the injury site
• Green, yellow, or foul-smelling drainage
• Wound bleeding that won't stop
• Numbness, coldness, or blue/white color around the wound
• Fever occurring after injury

These are signs of a possible skin infection or other wound complication requiring medical treatment with prescription antibiotic medications or stitches. Skin infections left untreated can spread deeper or to the bloodstream, so prompt medical care is important.

The Takeaway

When it comes to first aid for scrapes and cuts, skip the hand sanitizer. The high alcohol content tends to irritate, dry out, and delay healing in open wounds. Instead, properly clean and bandage wounds using light antimicrobial products meant for broken skin. This encourages the moist, sterile environment optimal for injury recovery. Contact your doctor if wounds show signs of infection or other complications requiring medical care. With proper wound care, you can minimize scarring and enjoy healthy skin healing.

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.