Hand sanitizers provide an alternative to soap and water when germs or bacteria may rest on the hands. These gels are applied to the hand, and the chemicals within help to kill harmful agents on the hands. Active ingredients in hand sanitizers vary from product to product. Sanitizers are no replacement for soap and water when hands are visibly dirty.Triclosan
Triclosan is a synthetic ingredient that's used as an antibacterial ingredient in many household products--including cleaning supplies, deodorant, soaps, mouthwash and toothpaste, according to the Asbury Park Press. Although this ingredient has some concerned about its toxicity to the environment, triclosan has not been proven as harmful to humans. The Daily Green says triclosan reacts with chlorine found in the water to form chloroform, which can contaminate streams and has even been linked to increased occurrences of antibiotics resistance.
Alcohols
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers may contain some form or mixture of alcohols-- including isopropanol, ethanol or n-propanol--according to Infection Control Today. These chemicals are an effective way to kill bacteria because they strip the proteins required to replicate. Alcohols are effective in killing a number of bacteria and viruses, including fungus; and gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and pathogens, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. They do not, however, kill off allergens, such as those found in nuts.
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be drying to the skin, which causes some manufacturers to reduce the percentage of alcohol included within the formulation. The Ohio Department of Health recommends a person utilize a hand sanitizer that contains 60 percent or more alcohol.
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be drying to the skin, which causes some manufacturers to reduce the percentage of alcohol included within the formulation. The Ohio Department of Health recommends a person utilize a hand sanitizer that contains 60 percent or more alcohol.
PCMX/CHG
These chemicals are similar to triclosan in that their antimicrobial properties are used for many household items. They're considered less drying to the skin than alcohol-based hand sanitizers--which can be a factor when a person is constantly using hand sanitizers each day.
References
Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/101586-chemicals-hand-sanitizers/#ixzz1kjcRJx1q
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