Hand sanitizer has a misleading name ^99%

Hand sanitizer: a staple in our daily lives, but does its name truly reflect what it does? While it's been a game-changer for public health, the truth is that hand sanitizers don't actually sanitize hands in the way we think they do.

What Does Hand Sanitizer Do?

Hand sanitizers are designed to kill germs and bacteria on skin surfaces. They typically contain a combination of ethanol (usually 60-95%), water, and other additives like fragrances or moisturizers. When applied, hand sanitizer works by denaturing proteins in the cell membranes of microorganisms, ultimately leading to their death.

But What About 'Sanitizer'?

So, why do we call it a sanitizer if it doesn't actually remove dirt or grime? The answer lies in marketing and regulatory terminology. In the US, the FDA defines a sanitizer as "a product that reduces the number of microorganisms on a surface." This is where things get misleading: hand sanitizers may not actually eliminate all types of germs, including norovirus and Clostridioides difficile (C. diff), which are notoriously hard to kill.

The Limits of Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer has its limitations: - It's only effective when used correctly, with enough product rubbed into hands for the recommended amount of time. - It doesn't work on visibly dirty hands or those contaminated with chemicals or bodily fluids. - Some germs, like norovirus and C. diff, may still survive after application.

What Can We Do Instead?

While hand sanitizers are not a substitute for soap and water, they're still a valuable tool in our fight against germs. To get the most out of them:

• Use hand sanitizer correctly and consistently.
• Combine with regular handwashing (at least 20 seconds) to achieve maximum germ-killing power.

Conclusion

The term 'hand sanitizer' can be misleading. By understanding what it actually does and its limitations, we can use it more effectively in conjunction with other hygiene practices. Remember: proper hand hygiene is a combination of washing with soap and water, using hand sanitizer when needed, and practicing good habits like covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing.