We all know that washing our hands with soap and water is the best remedy to kill germs – especially if you do this correctly and for at least twenty seconds. With the rise of viruses during the winter months, hand sanitizers become the go-to product in between washing. But it can be difficult to know which is the best to choose.
Many moisturizing hand sanitizers now on the market suggest that they kill 99.9% germs and provide moisturizing benefits, however, it is always best to read ingredients lists, claims and customer reviews. Only because they claim to be “Moisturizing hand sanitizers” they are still seriously drying for your skin and will not provide any form of moisturizing benefit, as they are 70% alcohol based. Although you need at least this much alcohol in order for the sanitizer to be effective, it is also important to realize that these should be used sparingly and only when it is absolutely necessary.
It is always important and preferred to wash your hands with soap and water. If you are concerned about dry, cracked skin from over sanitizing or over washing, you are far better off using a shielding lotion. They are generally applied when your hands are dry and clean. Only a pea size amount is enough to rub all over your hands. The shielding effect comes into play immediately and acts as a barrier from hand sanitizers, harsh soaps and excessive exposure to water which are all leading causes of dry skin.
Some things to consider when using any kind of hand sanitizer:
- Only use it when there is no water and soap available.
- use only a dime size amount and rub it in all over your hands and between your fingers and thumb
- making sure the moisturizing hand sanitizer gel has absorbed and evaporated before you touch your mouths, eyes or nose
- supervise children when they need to use a sanitizer
- Keep away from flames
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