Hand Sanitizers

Hand sanitizers are products that effectively reduce germs on the hands through the use of alcohol-based formulas or other antimicrobial agents.
Category
Product
Where to get
Available for purchase over-the-counter in pharmacies, supermarkets, and online
Applicable for
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Hand Sanitizers FAQ


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What is hand sanitizer used for?

Hand sanitizer (also known as hand antiseptic, hand disinfectant, hand rub, or handrub) is a liquid, gel or foam generally used to kill many viruses / bacteria / microorganisms on the hands. It can also come in the form of a cream, spray, or wipe. In most settings, hand washing with soap and water is generally preferred.

Are hand sanitizers effective?

They also do not fully cleanse or sanitize the skin when hands are noticeably soiled prior to application. 1,2 Despite the variability in effectiveness, hand sanitizers can help control the transmission of infectious diseases, especially in settings where compliance with hand washing is poor.

How do you use hand sanitizer?

To get the maximum benefit from hand sanitizers, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people use a product that contains at least 60% alcohol, cover all surfaces of their hands with the product, and rub them together until dry.

What is hand sanitiser?

Hand sanitiser (also known as hand rub) is a rinse free solution to clean hands when soap and water are not available. There are three types of hand sanitisers currently available on the Australian market. These hand sanitisers are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

Do hand sanitisers contain antiseptic ingredients?

Hand sanitisers contain antiseptic ingredients. An antiseptic is a substance that is used on the skin to kill microorganisms or prevent the growth of microorganisms. Hand sanitisers can be either hand washes for use with water or handrubs for use without water.

Are all hand sanitisers the same?

Washing your hands is considered the gold standard for removing germs, but using hand sanitiser is a close second, especially if you're in a pinch and have no access to soap, water and a sink. But not all hand sanitisers are made the same. We've commissioned testing to find out just how much alcohol is in hand sanitisers sold by national retailers.

Hand Sanitizers References

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