Hand sanitizing is important for staying healthy.
According to the Mayo Clinic, frequent hand washing is one of the best ways to avoid getting sick and spreading illness. Adults and children can use antibacterial soaps to help stay healthy. A hand sanitizer is an alternative way to effectively get rid of germs when you're away from home or don't have quick access to soap and water.
Antibacterial Foam Hand Soap
The Mayo Clinic recommends washing your hands before basic activities such as preparing food, eating, treating wounds, inserting or removing contact lenses or touching a sick or injured individual. Guidelines suggest that you should run your hands under running water to completely soak them and then completely lather your hands with soap. Rub your hands vigorously for a minimum of 20 seconds, making sure to get between fingers and under fingernails. Rinse well and use a disposable towel or hand dryer to dry your hands thoroughly. Antibacterial foaming hand soap is usually available in liquid form in a bottle that squirts the soap out as a light foam. Foaming antibacterial hand soaps are typically available in bath and body shops.
Liquid Antibacterial Hand Soap
In addition to washing hands before many basic activities, there are a variety of tasks you might complete which require you to wash our hands afterward -- such as after handling raw meat, using the toilet, changing a diaper, interacting with an animal or touching pet toys, bedding, litter boxes, blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing, treating wounds and handling garbage. Liquid antibacterial hand soaps work with water like any other soap. They are designed to effectively kill 99.9 percent bacteria, but gentle enough to be used on the surfaces of your hands. According to Everyday Health, prolonged use of antibacterial soap may kill some of the good bacteria needed on your hands to help fight off infection -- so it's recommended that you don't use it every time you wash your hands.
Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer
Alcohol-based sanitizers don't require water. The Mayo Clinic suggests choosing a hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol if purchasing a commercial sanitizer. To use, apply enough hand sanitizer to your palm to effectively coat both hands completely. Rub your hands together for up to 25 seconds until the alcohol dissipates and your hands feel dry. Most commercial alcohol-based hand sanitizers kill up to 99.9 percent of bacteria. They are handy when in public places, such as events, school, work and shopping areas. Though they are great for sanitizing hands quickly, if your hands are showing visible dirt or grime, you should wash with soap and water.
Foam Hand Sanitizer
Foam hand sanitizers can be a great alternative to alcohol-based hand sanitizers because they are less harsh and promote more moisture to the skin. There are some commercial foam hand sanitizers available that help to prevent the H1N1 virus. These are typically available at pharmacies. Foaming hand sanitizers also kill 99.9 percent of bacteria and are preferred by users because using them doesn't create the cold, dry feeling that an alcohol-based hand sanitizer does. By leaving a layer of formula on the hands -- similar to putting lotion on -- you receive continued protection throughout the day. Some foaming hand sanitizers contain alcohol.
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