The popularity of hand sanitizer during COVID-19
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, hand sanitizer has become a household staple. People are using it more than ever before to protect themselves from the virus, and some people may be using hand sanitizer dozens of times a day. While hand sanitizer can be effective in killing germs, there are some potential dangers to be aware of.
Drying out your skin
One of the most common issues with using hand sanitizer regularly is that it can dry out your skin. This is because most hand sanitizers use alcohol as the main ingredient. Alcohol is fantastic at killing germs, but it can also strip away the natural oils that keep your skin moist. If you start to notice your skin becoming dry or irritated after using hand sanitizer regularly, you may need to take a break or use a moisturizer afterwards.
Ingesting hand sanitizer
Ingesting hand sanitizer is another major danger that many people may not be aware of. Hand sanitizer contains high concentrations of alcohol, and ingesting even a small amount can be dangerous. According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers, ingesting hand sanitizer can lead to alcohol poisoning, which can cause symptoms such as vomiting, seizures, and even coma or death.
Not effective against all germs
While hand sanitizer can be effective at killing many types of germs, it is not effective against all of them. For example, hand sanitizer is generally not effective against norovirus, which is a highly contagious virus that can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Additionally, if your hands are visibly dirty or greasy, hand sanitizer may not be enough to get them clean.
Possible allergic reactions
Finally, it is possible to have an allergic reaction to the ingredients in hand sanitizer. This is more likely to occur in people who have sensitive skin or who have had allergic reactions to other products in the past. Some common symptoms of an allergic reaction to hand sanitizer can include redness, itching, and hives.
In conclusion
While hand sanitizer can be a useful tool in fighting germs, it is important to be aware of its potential dangers. By using hand sanitizer in moderation and being aware of the risks, you can protect yourself and others without putting yourself in harm’s way.
