Hand hygiene is vital in preventing the spread of germs and infections. In recent times, hand sanitizers have been a popular way to keep hands clean and germ-free. However, with the COVID-19 pandemic, hand sanitizers have become a scarce commodity, prompting people to look for alternative ways to keep their hands clean. One such alternative is witch hazel. In this article, we will explore the topic ‘Can witch hazel replace hand sanitizer?’ and delve deeper into the effectiveness of witch hazel as a hand sanitizer.
What is Witch Hazel?
Before we delve into the effectiveness of witch hazel as a hand sanitizer, let’s first understand what witch hazel is. Witch hazel is a plant native to North America and parts of Asia. It belongs to a family of flowering shrubs with the scientific name Hamamelis Virginiana. The extract from the bark and leaves of the witch hazel plant is used to make various skincare products and remedies, thanks to its astringent properties.
Is Witch Hazel Effective as a Hand Sanitizer?
When it comes to hand sanitization, the primary factor is the concentration of alcohol as it helps to kill germs and bacteria. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a hand sanitizer should contain at least 60% alcohol. While witch hazel has some antimicrobial properties, it does not contain enough alcohol concentration to kill germs and viruses effectively, making it an unreliable replacement for hand sanitizer.
Understanding the Benefits of Witch Hazel as a Hand Sanitizer Alternative
While witch hazel may not be a complete replacement for hand sanitizer, there are other benefits to using it. Witch hazel has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce skin irritation and redness caused by excessive use of hand sanitizer or hand washing. The astringent properties in witch hazel can help rid your skin of excess oil and reduce acne breakouts. Using witch hazel after washing your hands can help restore the natural pH of your skin.
How to Use Witch Hazel for Hand Sanitization
While using witch hazel as a hand sanitizer may not be the most effective way to kill germs on your hands, it can still be used. You can combine witch hazel and aloe vera gel to create a natural hand sanitizer that can help keep your hands clean and moisturized. Another way to use witch hazel is to wipe your hands with a cloth soaked in witch hazel. It’s important to note that witch hazel should not replace regular hand washing or hand sanitizer use, especially in high-risk situations that require maximum hand hygiene, such as medical settings.
Tips for Proper Hand Hygiene
There’s no doubt that regular hand hygiene is critical in preventing the spread of germs and infections. Here are some tips for proper hand hygiene:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with your hands
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing
- Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
Conclusion
While witch hazel may have some benefits as a hand sanitizer alternative, it is not as effective as traditional hand sanitizers. Regular hand washing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is still the best way to maintain proper hand hygiene. Remember to follow the tips for proper hand hygiene and clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces to stay safe and healthy.
Most Common Questions and Their Answers Related to the Topic
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Can witch hazel kill germs?
Witch hazel has some antimicrobial properties, but it does not contain enough alcohol concentration to kill germs and viruses effectively, making it an unreliable replacement for hand sanitizer. -
Can I use witch hazel as a hand sanitizer?
While using witch hazel as a hand sanitizer may not be the most effective way to kill germs on your hands, it can still be used. You can combine witch hazel and aloe vera gel to create a natural hand sanitizer that can help keep your hands clean and moisturized. Another way to use witch hazel is to wipe your hands with a cloth soaked in witch hazel. -
Is witch hazel good for skin?
Yes, witch hazel can be beneficial for the skin in various ways. Its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce skin irritation and redness caused by excessive use of hand sanitizer or hand washing. The astringent properties in witch hazel can help rid your skin of excess oil and reduce acne breakouts. Using witch hazel after washing your hands can help restore the natural pH of your skin. -
What are the CDC’s guidelines for hand sanitizers?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a hand sanitizer should contain at least 60% alcohol. -
Can I use witch hazel instead of hand sanitizer during the COVID-19 pandemic?
No, witch hazel should not replace regular hand washing or hand sanitizer use, especially in high-risk situations that require maximum hand hygiene, such as medical settings.
References
1. United States Department of Agriculture. Hamamelis Virginiana. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=HAVI
2. Hofer, M. T. (2018). Witch hazel distillate: a forgotten weapon for the treatment of viral warts, cold sores, and herpes. Journal of drugs in dermatology: JDD, 17(2), 205. https://jddonline.com/articles/dermatology/S1545961618P0205X
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hand hygiene recommendations. https://www.cdc.gov/handhygiene/index.html