Hand sanitizers have become an essential part of people’s lives since the COVID-19 pandemic started. They are necessary for maintaining hand hygiene and preventing the spread of the virus. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers have been known to be effective against the virus, but there is a rising interest in non-alcohol hand sanitizers. The question is, does non-alcohol hand sanitizer work?
What is Non-Alcohol Hand Sanitizer?
Non-alcohol hand sanitizers use an alternative disinfectant to kill germs and bacteria. They are usually made with benzalkonium chloride, chlorhexidine, or triclosan, and they claim to be just as effective as alcohol-based sanitizers.
How Does Non-Alcohol Hand Sanitizer Work?
Non-alcohol hand sanitizers work by disrupting the cell membrane of bacteria and viruses, killing them in the process. Benzalkonium chloride, for example, is a quaternary ammonium compound that destroys the lipid envelope of viruses, ultimately killing them.
Are Non-Alcohol Hand Sanitizers Effective Against COVID-19?
According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), non-alcohol hand sanitizers have not been proven to be effective against COVID-19. However, some studies suggest that they do have antiviral activity against certain viruses, including coronaviruses.
What are the Advantages of Using Non-Alcohol Hand Sanitizer?
There are several advantages to using non-alcohol hand sanitizers, including:
- They are less drying to the skin than alcohol-based sanitizers.
- They do not have a strong odor like alcohol-based sanitizers.
- They are not flammable.
What are the Disadvantages of Using Non-Alcohol Hand Sanitizer?
There are also some disadvantages to using non-alcohol hand sanitizers, including:
- They may not be as effective against certain viruses like COVID-19.
- They may take longer to kill germs and bacteria than alcohol-based sanitizers.
- They may not be as convenient to use since they require more time and rubbing to be effective.
Is Non-Alcohol Hand Sanitizer Safe?
Non-alcohol hand sanitizers are generally considered safe for use. However, some studies suggest that prolonged use of certain types of disinfectants, including benzalkonium chloride, may lead to antibiotic resistance and the development of superbugs.
Who Should Use Non-Alcohol Hand Sanitizer?
Non-alcohol hand sanitizers are suitable for anyone who wants to maintain hand hygiene but cannot use alcohol-based sanitizers. They are also a good alternative for people with dry or sensitive skin who may find alcohol-based sanitizers too harsh.
How to Use Non-Alcohol Hand Sanitizer?
The proper way to use non-alcohol hand sanitizer is as follows:
- Squirt a dime-sized amount of sanitizer onto your hands.
- Rub your hands together, making sure to cover all surfaces, including the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
- Rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds or until the sanitizer is dry.
Can Non-Alcohol Hand Sanitizer Replace Soap and Water?
No, non-alcohol hand sanitizer cannot replace soap and water. While it is a good alternative when soap and water are not available, it is not as effective at removing dirt, grime, and other organic materials from your hands.
Conclusion
Non-alcohol hand sanitizers are a viable alternative to alcohol-based sanitizers. While they may not be as effective against certain viruses like COVID-19, they do kill bacteria and other germs. They are also less drying to the skin and not as flammable as alcohol-based sanitizers. However, they may take longer to work and may not be as convenient to use. Therefore, it is essential to choose the right hand sanitizer for your needs and use it correctly.
FAQs
- Can non-alcohol hand sanitizers kill COVID-19?
Non-alcohol hand sanitizers have not been proven to be effective against COVID-19, according to the FDA. - Are non-alcohol hand sanitizers safe?
Non-alcohol hand sanitizers are generally considered safe for use. However, some studies suggest that prolonged use of certain types of disinfectants may lead to antibiotic resistance and the development of superbugs. - How do non-alcohol hand sanitizers work?
Non-alcohol hand sanitizers work by disrupting the cell membrane of bacteria and viruses, ultimately killing them.
References
1. Non-Alcohol Based Hand Sanitizer: A Better Alternative to Alcohol-Based Sanitizer. (n.d.). Retrieved February 09, 2021, from https://www.business-standard.com/article/specials/non-alcohol-based-hand-sanitizer-a-better-alternative-to-alcohol-based-sanitizer-120051600239_1.html
2. FDA updates on hand sanitizers consumers should not use | FDA. (n.d.). Retrieved February 09, 2021, from https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-updates-hand-sanitizers-consumers-should-not-use
3. Do Non-Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers Work? (n.d.). Retrieved February 09, 2021, from https://www.colonialchemicalinc.com/can-non-alcohol-based-hand-sanitizers-help-protect-against-covid-19/
4. Dyer, O. (2020). Covid-19: Could changing the formulation of alcohol hand rubs boost compliance and virucidal activity? (pp. 2-5, Rep.). BMJ.
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