Hand sanitizer
Alternative to hand washing / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Dear Wikiwand AI, let's keep it short by simply answering these key questions:
Can you list the top facts and stats about Hand sanitizer?
Summarize this article for a 10 year old
Hand sanitizer (also known as hand antiseptic, hand disinfectant, hand rub, or handrub) is a liquid, gel or foam generally used to kill many viruses/bacteria/microorganisms on the hands.[3][4] It can also come in the form of a cream, spray, or wipe.[5] In most settings, hand washing with soap and water is generally preferred.[6][7][8] Hand sanitizer is less effective at killing certain kinds of germs, such as norovirus and Clostridium difficile, and unlike hand washing, it cannot physically remove harmful chemicals.[6] People may incorrectly wipe off hand sanitizer before it has dried,[6] and some are less effective because their alcohol concentrations are too low.[6]
Clinical data | |
---|---|
Other names | Hand sanitizer, hand antiseptic,[1] hand disinfectant, hand rub, handrub[2] |
Alcohol-based hand sanitizer that is at least 60% (v/v) alcohol in water (specifically, ethanol or isopropyl alcohol/isopropanol (rubbing alcohol)) is recommended by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), but only if soap and water are not available.[9] The CDC recommends the following steps when using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer:
- Apply product to the palm of one hand.
- Rub hands together.
- Rub the product over all surfaces of hands and fingers until hands are dry.[9]
- Do not go near flame or gas burner or any burning object during application of hand sanitizer.
In most healthcare settings, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are preferable to hand washing with soap and water,[10][11] because it may be better tolerated and is more effective at reducing bacteria.[4] Hand washing with soap and water, however, should be carried out if contamination can be seen, or following the use of the toilet.[12] The general use of non-alcohol-based hand sanitizers is not recommended.[10] Although non-alcohol-based hand sanitizer is not recommended, it is not flammable and is generally safer for children to use.[5]
Alcohol-based versions typically contain some combination of isopropyl alcohol, ethanol (ethyl alcohol), or n-propanol, with versions containing 60% to 95% alcohol the most effective.[4] Care should be taken as they are flammable.[10] Alcohol-based hand sanitizer works against a wide variety of microorganisms but not spores.[4] Compounds such as glycerol may be added to prevent drying of the skin.[4] Some versions contain fragrances; however, these are discouraged due to the risk of allergic reactions.[13] Non-alcohol based versions typically contain benzalkonium chloride or triclosan; but are less effective than alcohol-based ones.[14][15][16]
Alcohol has been used as an antiseptic at least as early as 1363 with evidence to support its use becoming available in the late 1800s.[17] Alcohol-based hand sanitizer has been commonly used in Europe since at least the 1980s.[18] The alcohol-based version is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.[19][20]