Hand sanitizers contain liquids, gels, and foams for decreasing infectious agents on our hands. However, they need to be applied correctly, and be of sufficient strength to be effective. Alcohol-based types containing ethanol and isopropanol found their way into the public domain with COVID-19. They are a familiar sight, yet how many of us know the correct way to use hand sanitizer?
The Correct Way to Use Hand Sanitizer in Social Settings
This article is not about sterilizing hands in hospital settings. It provides basic, no-nonsense advice for consumers based on the best information we can obtain. Washing with soap and water is still the preferred option when this is available. However, this is seldom the case when out and about in busy spaces.
CDC does not recommend alcohol-based hand sanitizers if our hands are greasy because they may not reach through to our skin. The correct way to use hand sanitizer on clean hands is as follows:
1… Make sure you are not near a gas burner or open flame
2… Apply sufficient product to one palm and rub hands together
3… Rub all over fingers and hands until they are dry to the touch
More Tips to Help the Hand Sanitizer Do the Job
Long finger nails, and chipped nail polish can harbor microbes including the virus causing COVID-19. Nails should therefore be short, clean, and in their natural state. Coatings, extensions and artificial nails are something to consider avoiding in high risk situations.
The SARS-CoV-2 virus can also shelter under rings, bracelets, and wearable straps, especially where these have fine detailing. Therefore, the correct way to use hand sanitizer includes applying it to all wearable surfaces.
However, do check the manufacturers’ recommendations first, because alcohol may permanently damage some materials. We are moving in uncertain space during COVID-19 pandemic. We may have to change some ways of doing things to stay safe.
Related
Why COVID-19 Can’t Resist Soap and Water
How Pathogens from Microbes Make Us Sick
Preview Image: An Officer Sanitizes Their Hands
