What Makes a Hand Sanitizer Natural?
Hand sanitizers have become more important than ever in our daily lives. With a global pandemic still ongoing, residents around the world are taking extra precautions to sanitize their hands regularly. However, not all hand sanitizers are created equal. While some contain harsh chemicals that can cause skin irritation, others are made with natural, non-toxic ingredients. A natural hand sanitizer is gentler on your skin and still kills germs effectively. But what ingredients should you look for to ensure your hand sanitizer is truly natural?
Alcohol-Based Sanitizers
The main ingredient found in almost all hand sanitizers is alcohol, which kills germs and bacteria on your hands. However, not all types of alcohol are created equal. Most commercial hand sanitizers use isopropyl alcohol, which can be harsh on your skin. Natural hand sanitizers often use ethyl alcohol or grain alcohol instead, which is gentler and less irritating. Ethyl alcohol is found in most alcoholic drinks and is proven to be effective against germs.
Natural Antibacterial Ingredients
Aside from alcohol, there are many natural antibacterial ingredients that can be used in hand sanitizers. These include essential oils like tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, and thyme oil, which have been shown to kill germs and viruses. Aloe vera is also a popular ingredient in natural hand sanitizers due to its soothing and moisturizing properties. Natural hand sanitizers that contain essential oils and aloe vera can be gentler on your skin and provide added benefits.
Humectants and Moisturizers
One issue with using hand sanitizers frequently is that they can dry out your skin and irritate it. However, natural hand sanitizers can contain humectants and moisturizers that prevent this from happening. Glycerin and propylene glycol are common humectants that attract moisture to your skin, while ingredients like jojoba oil and vitamin E can moisturize and protect your skin. Natural hand sanitizers that contain these ingredients are ideal for people with dry or sensitive skin.
Avoiding Harmful Chemicals
Finally, natural hand sanitizers should avoid the use of harmful chemicals like triclosan, phthalates, and parabens. These chemicals have the potential to cause skin irritation and may also have negative effects on your health. Natural hand sanitizers that are free of these chemicals are gentler and a safer choice for daily use. Before purchasing a hand sanitizer, read the label carefully and avoid products that contain harmful chemicals.
