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Writer's pictureCharlotte Easterling

Is Hand Sanitizer Really Cleaning Your Hands?

Post created by Lizzy


At the start of the pandemic, hand sanitizer could not be found due to it flying off of shelves. It was one of the first items on the panic buying list, and everyone was positive it was their one defense against Covid-19. This obsession with hand sanitizer leads to studies on whether or not it actually protects like promised. Hand sanitizers promise to kill 99.9% of germs, so many people have started using it more and more and using it instead of handwashing, and this is where sanitizer becomes unsanitary. 


The number one most effective way to prevent sickness and kill germs is good ol' handwashing. Hum the ABC's use an adequate amount of soap, and use lukewarm water. Hand sanitizer is a good alternative in a pinch when used effectively and at the right time. 


Hand sanitizer is meant to mostly be used in hospitals because of the fast-paced environment and the excess amount of germs. Sanitizer is meant to be used for the prevention of germs on relatively clean hands. What most users do not realize is that it loses its effectiveness when used on soiled, wet, or greasy hands. It also must be applied properly, the bottle will tell you the adequate amount to put in the palm of your hand, it then must be rubbed over every surface of your hand and allowed to air dry. 


Overall, hand sanitizer is able to complete the job of killing most germs, but it is only effective when used in the situations listed above. However, it will never trump soap and water. So wash your hands often, and sanitize when need be. 


References:

https://www.rush.edu/health-wellness/discover-health/does-hand-sanitizer-work

https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/show-me-the-science-hand-sanitizer.html

Photo: https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/reviewedcom/2020/03/10/heres-where-buy-hand-sanitizer-online/5012570002/

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