Alcohol based hand rubs are a popular alternative to traditional petroleum-based products. They are effective at cleaning hands, but can lead to allergic reactions and static electricity. This article will examine some of the disadvantages of alcohol-based hand rub. We'll also discuss the cost of alcohol-based hand rubs. But before you buy, read on to understand how they differ from petroleum-based products.
Alcohol-based hand rubs
can cause static electricity. This electrical charge is generated when friction
between two insulating materials removes electrons from atoms. The high levels
of static electricity can pose problems for practical electronics. Even a
person walking across a floor can build up a charge of several thousand volts and
disrupt a circuit. Certain crystalline materials have a property called
piezoelectric, which generates electrical potentials when mechanically
deformed.
Using hand sanitizer can
cause static electricity. This could cause a fire if it ignites from alcohol
vapor. One case involved a 44-year-old man who suffered burns from static
electricity caused by alcohol-based liquid hand wash. The man had been cleaning
with the sanitizer in his kitchen near a gas stove when he spilled liquid on
his clothes. The fumes of the alcohol reached a nearby gas stove. The man
didn't realize he was burning his clothes until he realized his clothes were on
fire.
Dry skin:
The efficacy of alcohol-based
hand rubs is increased when the concentration is between 70 and ninety percent.
In addition to being effective, an ABHR should not contain dyes, preservatives,
or allergenic attractant. Frequent use of an ABHR can leave hands dry. Keeping
a pocket moisturizer handy can reduce this effect. However, beware of
alcohol-based hand rubs that contain pandemonium chloride, which are less
effective against coronaviruses and other viruses. Moreover, those with
dermatitis or allergies are more susceptible to contact urticaria, a skin
disorder involving allergic reactions.
Read More: Health Benefits of a Hand Rub
Alcohol based hand rubs
are convenient to use. Since they do not require water, soap, or towels, they
are suitable for all environments. Furthermore, alcohol hand rubs are not
likely to contribute to the spread of fire, which is another important benefit.
But they can dry out your skin if used frequently. It is therefore recommended
that you wash your hands with a non-alcohol-based hand rub once or twice a day
to minimize skin dryness.
Allergic reactions:
Allergic reactions to alcohol-based hand wash are rare and require prompt treatment. The substance is chemically compatible with soaps and moisturizing lotions. However, there are several factors that affect the possibility of a skin reaction. Fortunately, recent studies suggest that the cutaneous absorption of alcohol-based hand rubs is low and shouldn't pose a significant risk to healthcare workers. Healthcare workers who are concerned about the cutaneous absorption of alcohol-based hand rubs may consider a hand rub containing propranolol.
Alcohol-based hand rubs
have a high irritant potential. This makes them a poor choice for those who
suffer from sensitive skin. They also remove the natural barrier of the skin,
making it more susceptible to allergens. Because these allergens can penetrate
the skin's surface, they can trigger an autoimmune reaction, resulting in skin
irritation and rashes. It can also lead to irritation, dryness, and even
eczema.
Cost:
Alcohol based hand rubs
(ABHR) are an essential protective product for the prevention of disease,
especially for healthcare workers. Hand wash liquid is an important component of
a good hygiene regimen and CDC and WHO recommend alcohol-based hand rubs over
soap for these reasons. These products are more effective and less irritating
to hands, making them an excellent choice for health facilities and individuals
who don't have access to a sink. However, they can be costly.
Read More: 4 Steps for Using Alcohol-Based Hand Rub
Although cost is a
concern, the effectiveness of alcohol-based hand rubs is proven to reduce the
risk of late-onset infection among very low birth weight infants. In an article
published in the Journal of Infect Control, Ng PC, Teare L, and Stone S
reported that combined use of an alcohol hand rub and gloves decreased late
onset infections among very low birth weight infants. These studies are reported
in the journal Am J Infect Control.
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