Coronavirus-fighting recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other organizations overwhelmingly urge Americans to wash their hands frequently and consistently — and experts agree that soap and water is the most effective cleanser. If soap and water are not available (for example, when you are running an essential errand for food or prescription medicines), using a hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol is an acceptable alternative, according to the CDC. But potency isn’t the only thing to consider when picking a hand sanitizer. “Keep in mind that there are a lot of variables that can affect if your sanitizer will kill pathogens on your hands,” says Daniel Parker, MD, an assistant professor of population and disease prevention at the University of California in Irvine. Other important considerations include additional ingredients, best-use practices, and storage, all of which carry risks to the skin and your home. RELATED: Food Safety and COVID-19: A Guide for Handling Groceries and Takeout
Isopropyl alcohol (known as “rubbing alcohol”), which is readily available at grocery or drugstores and is used to kill bacteria, fungi, and virusesEthanol (commonly called ethyl or grain alcohol), which may be most effective ( and is also safe when ingested), according to a study published April 2018 in the Journal of Hospital Infection
Isopropyl alcohol is available in concentrations ranging from 40 percent to 91 percent. Experts say to look for a product that is greater than 70 percent (if it’s not strong enough, it won’t inactivate viruses). But keep in mind that the higher the concentration, the greater the toxicity. Definitely avoid concentrations of 99 percent or more, which are commonly used in commercial and industrial settings. Ethanol may be preferable to isopropyl alcohol, but don’t rely on the bottle of vodka or gin on your liquor shelf, says Carl Fichtenbaum, MD, a professor of clinical medicine at the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine. He explains that these liquors are mostly 80 or 90 proof, which does not yield the minimum 60 percent alcohol concentration recommended by the CDC. Instead, look for grain alcohol (commonly bottled at 151 or 191 proof), which provides a pathogen-killing alcohol concentration of 75.5 percent to 92.4 percent. RELATED: Scientists Fast-Track Research for Coronavirus Treatment and Vaccine
DIY Hand Sanitizer Recipe and Safety
The optimal DIY hand sanitizer recipe calls for two parts alcohol, one part aloe vera gel.
Materials
1 mixing bowl, 1 mixing utensil or whisk, a clean funnel, 1 washed and dried bottle with a resealable lid or hand pump, a clean work area.
Ingredients
⅔ cup ethanol or 91 percent isopropyl alcohol ⅓ cup aloe vera gel A few drops of essential oils (optional) Note that if your isopropyl alcohol is less than 91 percent, you can reduce the amount of aloe vera.
Directions
Safety is key, especially when it comes to handling isopropyl alcohol, says John Protasiewicz, PhD, a professor of chemistry at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland. Dr. Protasiewicz warns against using isopropyl alcohol without protective clothing, and advises that the work area be well-ventilated. Not only is isopropyl readily absorbed by the skin, but if swallowed or inhaled accidentally, it can be extremely toxic, he says, adding that it’s also highly flammable and must be stored far away from ignition sources (heat, sparks, and open flames). The same advice applies to ethanol.
How to Use Hand Sanitizer, and Some Helpful Hacks
The 20-second rule for hand-washing does not apply to alcohol-based hand sanitizers, which may require at least 10 seconds longer to fully evaporate. Apply the product to one hand and rub it across all hand surfaces, including thumbs, between the fingers, the tops of hands, and the palms, until they are dry. Note that alcohol-based hand sanitizers don’t work when hands are extremely soiled or greasy, and whether it’s your DIY product or a commercial one, avoid applying it if you have cuts or open sores on either hand. Aside from these tips, hand hygiene comes with its own set of risks, says Carrie Kovarik, MD, an associate professor of dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine in Philadelphia. Although it’s essential to keep hands clean, too much of a good thing can break down the skin’s protective barrier, leading to dry, itchy, cracked, irritated skin, and even small breaks (called fissures) that allow germs to enter. This is especially important for people with conditions like eczema, who are prone to flares. Dr. Kovarik recommends using a mineral oil– or petroleum-based moisturizer immediately after hand-washing or sanitizing, and keeping a small container on hand when going out. She says that people with any skin condition definitely want to avoid adding essential oils to their DIY recipes, as should anyone who is allergic to certain perfumes or other additives. Finally, Kovarik underscores that people should not be using household-cleaning-grade or baby wipes to clean their hands, as these products introduce harsh chemical irritants. RELATED: 8 Hand Eczema Dos and Don’ts
What if I Don’t Have Aloe Vera Gel?
If you can’t find aloe vera gel, you can use ethanol on its own, says Dr. Fichtenbaum. He recommends pouring an ample amount into a bowl that is large enough for both hands, submerging your hands for less than a minute, and then removing them and rubbing them together until the alcohol evaporates. The remainder can then be poured back into the bottle for repeated use. If DIY is ultimately not your thing, there’s another alternative: Some of the nation’s craft distilleries have shifted production from high-proof alcohol to affordable hand sanitizers. The Distilled Spirits Council of America offers a searchable list of distilleries on its website, but remember to check in with your local business about their hours and supplies before you head out. RELATED: 6 Dangerous COVID-19 Home Remedies to Avoid
