Hand sanitizers have been in high demand since the outbreak of the coronavirus. With the shortage of commercial hand sanitizers, many people have started looking for alternatives, such as homemade hand sanitizers. However, one question that has been asked repeatedly is whether lotion can be used to make hand sanitizer.
While lotion may seem like a viable option, it is important to understand the difference between lotion and hand sanitizer. Lotion is designed to moisturize the skin, whereas hand sanitizer is meant to disinfect and kill bacteria and viruses. In this article, we will explore the science behind hand sanitizers, the ingredients needed to make a homemade hand sanitizer, and whether or not lotion can be used as an alternative.
The Difference Between Hand Sanitizer and Lotion
Hand sanitizer and lotion are two different things and serve different purposes. Hand sanitizer is a disinfectant that is used to kill germs on the hands. It typically contains at least 60% alcohol, which is the active ingredient that kills germs. Hand sanitizer is meant to be used when soap and water are not available. It is a highly effective way to reduce the spread of germs, especially when used properly.
On the other hand, lotion is a moisturizer that is used to hydrate and soften the skin. It is usually made up of a combination of water, oils, and other ingredients that help to prevent dryness and protect the skin. Unlike hand sanitizer, lotion does not contain alcohol or other disinfecting agents, and therefore cannot kill germs. Using lotion instead of hand sanitizer to disinfect your hands is not recommended and will not be effective in preventing the spread of germs.
The Ingredients Needed to Make Hand Sanitizer
To make hand sanitizer, you only need a few simple ingredients including rubbing alcohol, aloe vera gel, and essential oils. Rubbing alcohol should be at least 70 percent isopropyl alcohol and acts as the main sanitizing agent in the recipe. Aloe vera gel is used to moisturize and soothe the skin while also helping to thicken the mixture. Essential oils are optional, but they can add a pleasant scent and also have antibacterial properties.
When purchasing ingredients to make hand sanitizer, it is important to note that some stores may have limited supplies due to a recent surge in demand. However, some pharmacies and online retailers may still have supplies available. It is also important to be cautious when purchasing ingredients online and make sure to buy from a reputable source.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Using Lotion for Sanitizing Hands
When it comes to making hand sanitizer at home, using lotion as one of the ingredients has been suggested by some. The main benefit of using lotion is that it can help to prevent your hands from becoming too dry and irritated from frequent sanitizing. Lotion can also provide a pleasant scent and moisturizing properties, which can make the hand sanitizer experience more enjoyable.
However, there are also drawbacks to using lotion in hand sanitizer. Adding too much lotion can dilute the effectiveness of the sanitizer, as the alcohol content will be reduced. Additionally, some lotions may contain oils or other ingredients that can interfere with the antimicrobial properties of the sanitizer. It’s important to be cautious when adding lotion to hand sanitizer, to avoid compromising its effectiveness.
Understanding Alcohol Content for Effective Sanitization
When it comes to creating an effective hand sanitizer, understanding the alcohol content is crucial. Alcohol is the main active ingredient that kills germs and viruses on your hands. For a hand sanitizer to be effective, it needs to contain at least 60% alcohol. This percentage should strike the balance between being effective and not drying out your hands too much, as higher alcohol concentrations can lead to skin irritation.
It’s worth noting that not all types of alcohol are effective in sanitizers. Ethanol and isopropyl alcohol are the two main types of alcohol used in hand sanitizers. Ethanol is commonly found in alcoholic beverages and isopropyl alcohol is a clear liquid commonly used as a solvent in cosmetics and personal care products. Both are effective in eliminating germs and viruses and can be used to create an effective hand sanitizer. With a clear understanding of the alcohol content required to kill germs, you can now create a perfect blend of lotion and alcohol to make an effective hand sanitizer.
How to Make Hand Sanitizer at Home
Making hand sanitizer at home is a straightforward process that needs only a few ingredients. The recipe involves mixing isopropyl alcohol (or rubbing alcohol) with aloe vera gel and adding optional essential oils for fragrance. To begin, measure out two-thirds of a cup of isopropyl alcohol and one-third of a cup of aloe vera gel and mix them in a bowl until they’re combined. If you want to add fragrance, you can add a few drops of essential oil of your choice, such as lavender, lemon, peppermint, eucalyptus, or tea tree oil.
Once you’ve mixed the ingredients, pour the sanitizer mixture into a clean, squeezable plastic container. Shake the container well so that the mixture blends together. The sanitizer should be used as soon as possible, as the alcohol evaporates quickly and the gel will become less effective over time. By following these steps and using the right ingredients, you can make your own hand sanitizer at home easily and economically.
Safety Precautions When Making Sanitizer
When making hand sanitizer at home, it is important to take necessary safety precautions to avoid any potential harm or accidents. As such, it is recommended that you wear gloves and a mask while handling the ingredients. This is especially important when using high concentrations of alcohol, such as rubbing alcohol, which can be harmful if ingested or inhaled.
Additionally, it is crucial to label your hand sanitizer with the ingredients and their concentrations. This will help ensure that others are aware of what they are using and prevent any accidental ingestion. It is also essential to keep the sanitizer out of reach of children and pets, and to properly dispose of any unused mixtures. By following these safety precautions, you can create your own hand sanitizer while maintaining a safe and responsible environment.
Other Alternatives to Hand Sanitizer and Lotion for Hand Hygiene
Hand hygiene is crucial, especially during outbreaks of infectious diseases. While hand sanitizers and lotions are commonly used for maintaining hand hygiene, there are several alternatives available. One option is using soap and water for handwashing. Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water can eliminate germs and viruses effectively. It is also recommended to use disposable towels for drying hands after washing to prevent the spread of germs.
Another alternative to hand sanitizers and lotions is the use of antiseptic wipes. These wipes contain antiseptic agents that can kill germs and bacteria. They are convenient to use and can be carried easily in bags or purses. However, it is important to note that antiseptic wipes should not be used in place of handwashing, but rather as an additional measure. Overall, practicing good hand hygiene habits with the help of readily available alternatives ensures that germs and viruses do not have a chance to spread.
The Bottom Line
It may be tempting to turn to lotion as a quick fix for hand sanitizer when supplies are low, but the truth is that lotion simply cannot substitute for the real deal. Lotion and hand sanitizer are entirely different products with different purposes, ingredients, and efficacy levels.
While lotion provides moisture to the skin and can help protect it from cracking or drying out, it does not contain the alcohol or other disinfectants required to kill germs and viruses on contact. It’s important to stick to FDA-approved hand sanitizer formulas that meet the recommended alcohol concentration levels and follow proper application guidelines to ensure that your hands stay clean and healthy.