Kätepuhastusgeele

Kätepuhastusgeel, also known as hand sanitizer or hand antiseptic, is a liquid, gel, or foam solution that is used to kill germs on the hands. These products typically contain alcohol, such as ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, as the active ingredient. The alcohol works by denaturing the proteins in microbes, effectively killing them. Other ingredients may include emollients to prevent skin drying, thickeners, and fragrances.

Hand sanitizers are widely used as an alternative to handwashing with soap and water when soap and water are not readily available. They are effective against many types of bacteria and viruses. However, they are not as effective against certain germs, such as norovirus and Clostridium difficile. For heavily soiled or greasy hands, handwashing with soap and water is generally recommended.

The effectiveness of a hand sanitizer depends on its alcohol concentration. Products with at least 60% alcohol are generally recommended by health organizations. Proper use involves applying enough product to cover all surfaces of the hands and rubbing them together until they are dry. It is important to note that hand sanitizers are for external use only and should be kept out of reach of children. Ingestion can be harmful.