Since last year, hand sanitisers have transformed from handy accessories to survival essentials. They are seeing overwhelming demand around the world due to COVID-19. According to a projection by Arizton, the global hand sanitiser market is expected to reach USD 11.40 billion this year from USD 1.64 billion in 2019 – indicating a growth of an astounding 595 per cent. There are several sanitisers in the market to choose from, but not all of them are effective. Here are a few things to note while buying them:
What type of hand sanitiser are you buying?
Sanitisers can be alcohol-based or non-alcohol-based. Alcohol-free sanitisers are generally water-based and contain antiseptics like antimicrobial agents or benzalkonium chloride. While these are easier on the hands, they do not offer as much protection as alcohol-based sanitisers, which rely on the heat produced by friction. Since alcohol has a low boiling point, it evaporates on rubbing, along with germ particles. However, it may lead to dry skin in some cases. Health experts usually recommend alcohol-based sanitisers.
What is the percentage and type of alcohol?
A higher alcohol concentration does not make a sanitiser more effective. Instead, it should contain enough water to allow protein denaturing and prevent alcohol from evaporating too quickly. A sanitiser made of 100 per cent alcohol would not be as effective. The most effective sanitisers contain between 60 to 85 per cent of alcohol. There are typically two types of alcohol used in sanitisers – ethyl alcohol or isopropyl alcohol. Ethyl alcohol is considered more effective, less toxic and more fragrant.
Check the expiry dates and ingredients
Typically, hand sanitisers expire after two to three years. While sanitisers past their expiry date are not harmful, they are not as effective. It is because alcohol gradually evaporates over time, thereby reducing its effectiveness. Hence, always check the expiry date before purchasing it. In addition to the cleansing ingredients, hand sanitisers can also contain other ingredients, such as aloe and Vitamin E, to reduce dryness and smoothen the skin.
Hand contamination can increase the risk of COVID-19 by making it easier for the virus to enter your body through contact with your eyes, nose and mouth. Carrying hand sanitisers is an effective way to stay safe.
