How Effective is Non-Alcohol Hand Sanitizer?
In recent years, the demand for hand sanitizers has surged, particularly in light of the global pandemic. While alcohol-based hand sanitizers have been the go-to choice for many, non-alcohol hand sanitizers have also gained popularity. The question that often arises is: how effective is non-alcohol hand sanitizer? This article aims to explore the effectiveness of non-alcohol hand sanitizers and compare them with their alcohol-based counterparts.
Effectiveness of Non-Alcohol Hand Sanitizer
Non-alcohol hand sanitizers, also known as alcohol-free hand sanitizers, are made with alternative ingredients that have been proven to kill germs. These ingredients include benzalkonium chloride, triclosan, and phenoxyethanol. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these ingredients can be effective in killing germs on the hands, provided they contain at least 60% alcohol or an equivalent amount of active ingredients.
Research has shown that non-alcohol hand sanitizers can be effective in reducing the number of germs on the hands. A study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy found that non-alcohol hand sanitizers containing benzalkonium chloride were effective in reducing the number of bacteria on the hands by up to 99.9%. Another study published in the Journal of Infection and Public Health reported that non-alcohol hand sanitizers containing triclosan were effective in reducing the number of viruses on the hands.
Comparison with Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer
When comparing non-alcohol hand sanitizers with alcohol-based hand sanitizers, it is important to note that alcohol-based sanitizers are generally considered more effective in killing a broader range of germs. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers contain a high concentration of alcohol, typically between 60% and 95%, which helps to denature the proteins in the cell walls of bacteria and viruses, effectively killing them.
However, alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be harsh on the skin and may cause irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. Non-alcohol hand sanitizers, on the other hand, are gentle on the skin and do not cause irritation. This makes them a suitable alternative for individuals who cannot tolerate alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, non-alcohol hand sanitizers can be effective in reducing the number of germs on the hands, particularly when they contain active ingredients such as benzalkonium chloride, triclosan, or phenoxyethanol. While they may not be as effective as alcohol-based hand sanitizers in killing a broader range of germs, they offer a gentle alternative for those with sensitive skin. It is important to choose a non-alcohol hand sanitizer that meets the necessary criteria for effectiveness and to use it as directed to ensure proper hand hygiene.
