Why Do Alcohol-Based Sanitizers Dry Out Hands?
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Why Do Alcohol-Based Sanitizers Dry Out Hands?
Introduction:
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are a convenient way to reduce germs on your hands, but frequent use can lead to dryness and irritation. Understanding why this happens can help you take preventive steps to keep your skin healthy. Germkleen offers products that complement sanitizers by creating protective antimicrobial layers on surfaces and fabrics, reducing the need for repeated contact with irritants.
The Science Behind Alcohol-Based Sanitizers:
Sanitizers use alcohol—usually ethanol, isopropanol, or a combination—to kill germs. While effective against bacteria and viruses, alcohol evaporates quickly, removing natural oils from the skin in the process. These oils form a protective barrier that locks in moisture, so their removal can cause dryness and cracking.
Why Frequent Use Makes It Worse:
- Repeated Application: Frequent use of alcohol-based products depletes the skin’s moisture balance.
- Environmental Factors: Dry air, especially during winter, exacerbates the problem.
- Harsh Ingredients: Some sanitizers contain additional chemicals or fragrances that irritate sensitive skin.
How to Prevent Dryness:
- Moisturize Regularly: Use a hand cream with ingredients like glycerin or shea butter to replenish lost moisture.
- Alternate with Soap and Water: Washing hands with mild soap is gentler on the skin.
- Use Protective Barriers: Germkleen’s ALLSURFACE™ reduces germ presence on high-touch surfaces, decreasing reliance on sanitizers.
Conclusion:
Alcohol-based sanitizers are effective but can leave hands dry and irritated. Combining their use with products like Germkleen’s ALLSURFACE™ reduces overall exposure to germs, offering a balanced approach to hygiene.