Do Alcohol Hand Sanitizers Really Work?
Waterless or alcohol hand sanitizers are ubiquitous, but do they actually kill germs like MRSA?
Although most hand gels claim to kill 99.9% of harmful germs and bacteria, hand sanitizers with less than 60% ethyl or isopropyl alcohol are not effective. In fact, using an alcohol sanitizer with only 40% alcohol might not reduce bacteria on your hands at all. For example, to kill Staph aureus, the bacteria responsible for MRSA (methicillin resistant staph aureus) infections, you must use a sanitizer with at least 62% alcohol.
- Use a hand gel with between 62% and 95% ethyl alcohol (higher than 95% alcohol might ironically be less effective).
- Rub it vigorously into your hands, including in between your fingers and along your nails, until the gel has dried.
- How much gel should you use? Enough to keep rubbing for 20 seconds without drying completely. If the alcohol evaporates in less than 15 seconds, then you’re not using enough.
You should also use it after:
- sneezing, blowing your nose, or coughing
- using shopping carts
- going to the gym
- using public computers, telephones, or ATMs
- handling a baby diaper or toys
- playing with small children or attending places such as parks and jungle gyms
- coming in contact with animals, including your own beloved Fluffy
- before seeing your next patient (this one’s for me)
Oh, and can you really set your hands on fire by using an alcohol sanitizer? This was a hoax. In reality, it would be very unlikely.
Post written by Jeffrey Benabio, MD
You might also like:
Is There a Cure for Cellulite?
How to Stop a Shaving Nick From Bleeding
Are You Over-Scrubbing Your Face?
Botox Might Get Into Your Brain
Like this blog? Grab The Derm Feed
Photo credit: YW Lim
How to Avoid Razor Bumps (for Men and Women)
In the world of shaving, it would seem that bigger is better — the latest razors have 5 blades at last count. But do the extra blades make a difference?
Seven Steps to Stop Sweaty Feet
Are you gellin? Is it because you have great insoles or because your socks are so soaked with sweat that they squish when you walk? Read more
Is There a Cure for Cellullite?
The Victoria’s Secret bathing suit catalogue is out, and I know many of you are thinking, “Ugh. How am I gonna lose this cellulite before summer?” Before you take out your credit card, read this. Post by Jeffrey Benabio, MD Read more
A New Pill Prevents Acne
A new drug might be a breakthrough treatment for acne; it works by preventing acne from forming in the first place. Read more
-
-
About
A new dermatology blog from Dr. Benabio.
-
Categories
- Acne
- Allergies
- Cosmetics
- Dermatology News
- Dry Skin
- Hair Loss
- Health and Beauty
- Healthcare
- Melanoma
- Men's Skin Care
- Mini Med School: Basic Science
- Mini Med School: Derm 101
- Moles and Nevi
- Nails
- Natural Skin Remedies
- Rashes
- Recommended Products
- Skin and Pregnancy
- Skin Cancer
- Skin Infections
- Skincare Myths
- Uncategorized
- Women's Skin Care