How do waterless hand sanitizers kill bacteria?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends hand sanitizer when hands cannot be washed, as they effectively kill bacteria and viruses when used properly. They may be purchased at most grocery stores, supermarkets and pharmacies.ContentsHand sanitizers are typically alcohol-based gels that contain emollients to prevent skin irritation. Health professionals recommend their use as an optional follow-up to hand washing.Antibacterial PropertiesThe percentage of alcohol present in hand sanitizers determines how effectively they kill bacteria. An effective hand sanitizer contains 60 percent to 95 percent of two types of alcohol: ethanol and/or isopropanol.How Hand Sanitizers WorkOils secreted by the skin act as a growth medium for bacteria and viruses. Alcohol-based sanitizers strip the topmost layer of oil from the hands, removing surface bacteria.Why AlcoholAlcohol-based hand sanitizers are preferable to other antibacterial agents. This is because alcohol evaporates leaving no
