Sanitiser

Sanitiser, also known as hand sanitiser or hand antiseptic, is a liquid, gel, or foam that is applied to the hands to kill microorganisms. It is typically used when soap and water are not available for washing hands. The primary active ingredients in sanitisers are usually alcohol, such as ethanol or isopropanol, or sometimes other chemicals like chlorhexidine or benzalkonium chloride.

Alcohol-based sanitisers are effective at killing a wide range of bacteria and viruses. They work by denaturing proteins and disrupting cell membranes, which leads to the death of the microorganisms. The concentration of alcohol is important for effectiveness; health authorities generally recommend sanitisers with at least 60% alcohol content. Non-alcohol-based sanitisers use different mechanisms to kill germs.

Sanitisers are commonly found in public places like schools, offices, and shopping centres, as well as being available for personal use. They are particularly useful for reducing the transmission of infectious diseases, especially during outbreaks. While effective, sanitisers are not a complete replacement for handwashing, which is considered the most effective method for removing dirt, grime, and certain types of germs that sanitisers may not eliminate. Prolonged or frequent use of alcohol-based sanitisers can sometimes lead to dry skin.