When hand washing water becomes a "double-edged sword"
Dry hand washing water, especially alcohol-containing water, has the effect of quickly killing bacteria and viruses. But according to Megan Nunn, Ph.D. Pharmacy at the University of North Carolina, USA, abuse can be counterproductive: Alcohol in hand washing can dry the skin, causing peeling, cracking and even leading to chronic skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
In addition to the skin, the immune system is also affected. Eliminating both beneficial and harmful bacteria causes natural biological imbalance. Bacteria endemic to the skin help the immune system function better. If they are eliminated too much, the body can become more sensitive to the disease, says Nunn.
In particular, when accidentally letting the solution stick to the eyes or inhale in a closed space, users may experience eye irritation, dry cornea, headache, dizziness and shortness of breath. Some products also contain dangerous chemicals such as Benzen, methanol or triclosan, which are associated with the risk of cancer, liver and kidney damage or endocrine disorders.
Soap and water are still the safest options
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol should only be used without soap and clean water. Because soap not only removes common bacteria but also washes away viruses that cause diarrhea such as norovirus or Clostridium difficult bacteria, pathogens that dried hand washing cannot kill.
Non-alcoholic hand washing is not completely harmless. The ingredient Benzalkonium chloride can build up in the lungs, causing bronchitis or wheezing if inhaled regularly. Young children are the most vulnerable group, so they need to be monitored when using them.
Conservation of dried hand washing is a backup, not a replacement for soap should be considered, Dr. Megan Nunn emphasizes. When possible, choose to wash your hands under water to ensure long-term safety".
How to use it properly to minimize risks
Store away from sources of fire, high temperatures and out of reach for children.
Apply properly: take a sufficient amount, massage well for 2530 seconds until dry.
Avoid contact with scratched eyes, mouth or skin.
Moisturize after use to limit dry skin cracking.
Monitor children under 6 years old to prevent swallowing from causing alcohol poisoning.
