Handalcohols

Handalcohols, also known as alcohol-based hand sanitizers, are liquid, foam, or gel products containing ethanol or isopropanol as the active ingredient. They are designed to kill germs and viruses on the skin, thereby reducing the risk of infection. When used correctly, handalcohols are an effective method for hand hygiene, especially in situations where soap and water are not readily available. The concentration of alcohol is crucial for efficacy; generally, products containing at least 60% alcohol are recommended by health organizations.

The mechanism of action of handalcohols involves denaturing proteins and disrupting the lipid membranes of microorganisms, leading to their inactivation or death. They are not effective against all types of germs, such as norovirus or Clostridium difficile, and do not remove visible dirt or grime. Therefore, handwashing with soap and water remains the preferred method for cleaning hands when they are visibly soiled or after contact with specific pathogens.

Proper application involves applying enough product to cover all surfaces of the hands and rubbing them together until dry, typically for at least 20 seconds. Overuse or prolonged exposure to alcohol-based sanitizers can lead to skin dryness or irritation for some individuals. Moisturizers are often added to handalcohol formulations to mitigate these effects. Public health campaigns often promote the use of handalcohols as part of infection control strategies in various settings, including healthcare facilities, schools, and public spaces.