4 Myths about Alcohol-based sanitizers you should Stop Believing

Disinfecting and cleaning your hands regularly is one of the most important safety measures against germs . We tend to touch various objects and surfaces throughout the day that may be infested with the harmful coronavirus. Thus, there is always a high risk of you picking up the virus from these respective surfaces. This is the primary reason all of us are suggested to “not” touch our face, mouth, or nose with unclean hands.

However, this risk can be minimized significantly by regular hand washing and disinfecting. As per the World Health Organisation (WHO), soaps and alcohol-based hand sanitizers are capable of killing the novel virus strain and safeguarding us against the disease.

Unfortunately, alcohol-based sanitizers are leveraged with a host of myths that often stops people from using them. This can put people in a potentially risky and dangerous situation, especially when they’re outdoors with no access to water and soap. Thus, debunking the myths about alcohol-based sanitizers is the need of the hour.

Here are some myths associated with alcohol-based sanitizers that you should immediately stop believing:

Myth 1: All hand sanitizers are the same

Truth: There are two kinds of hand sanitizers i.e. alcohol-based sanitizers and alcohol-free sanitizers. Both these sanitizers comprise of different formulations and variable active ingredients. Their formulation affects the antimicrobial efficacy, further affecting the skin differently. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), alcohol-based sanitizers that contain at least 60% alcohol are effective in eliminating the SARS-CoV-2 virus. You can opt for hand sanitizers that contain 70% alcohol and are infused with the goodness of natural ingredients like Aloe Vera. This sanitizer will not only disinfect your hands but also keep them soft and moisturized.

Myth 2: Hand sanitizers cause antibiotic resistance

Truth: Hand sanitizers “do not” cause antibiotic resistance. In reality, antibiotics are ingested and that has no relation to alcohol hand sanitizers. In fact, sanitizers kill a variety of germs and dry up quickly on the hands. As per the CDC, improper and repeated use of antibiotics is the primary reason for antibiotic resistance, not sanitizers.

Myth 3: Alcohol-based hand sanitizers cause super germs

Truth: This is a newly rolled myth that is, in all terms, completely invalid. Most of the alcohol-based sanitizers contain ethyl alcohol, an active ingredient that destroys the cell membrane and protein of bacteria and viruses rapidly. Moreover, it dries out completely after use, leaving no scope for the germs to become resistant.

Myth 4: All alcohol-based sanitizers contain Triclosan

Truth: Triclosan is a chemical that contains antibacterial properties. However, the FDA banned the use of this chemical in skincare and hygiene products amidst safety concerns. The best alcohol-based hand sanitizers are free from all harmful chemicals. Alcohol-based sanitizers are playing a crucial role in safeguarding people against the fatal COVID-19 disease. Thus, they do not deserve to become subject to myths and criticism. They should be used properly and as the most effective alternative to soap and water.