käsihuuhde

Käsihuuhde, often referred to as hand sanitizer or hand rub, is a liquid, gel, or foam used to disinfect hands. It typically contains alcohol, such as ethanol or isopropanol, as its active ingredient. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are effective at killing a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses, by denaturing their proteins. The concentration of alcohol usually ranges from 60% to 95% for optimal efficacy.

Hand sanitizers are particularly useful when soap and water are not readily available. They can be used in various settings, including healthcare facilities, public places, and homes, to reduce the transmission of germs. While effective, hand sanitizers do not remove all types of germs, and they are less effective when hands are visibly dirty or greasy. In such cases, washing hands with soap and water is the preferred method for cleaning.

The use of hand sanitizers has become more widespread, especially following global health concerns such as pandemics. Proper application involves rubbing the sanitizer over all surfaces of the hands until they are dry. It is important to avoid touching the eyes, mouth, or nose immediately after application, as the alcohol can cause irritation. Some hand sanitizers also contain emollients, such as glycerin, to help prevent skin dryness.