While travelling, camping or going to the grocery store, you may find yourself in a situation where your hands get dirty or sticky and you do not have access to water and soap immediately. Hand sanitisers are the ideal solution to this common problem and they’re quite convenient too. These days, they come in all shapes, solutions and sizes to make sure you’re protected from germs at all times.
Are you thinking of stocking up on hand sanitisers for yourself or your family? We’ve curated a hand-sanitiser buying guide with all the information you need to make an informed decision when buying hand-sanitiser.
TYPES OF HAND SANITISERS
There are four main types of hand sanitisers you will find in store today, alcohol based or alcohol free hand sanitisers. Here are the main differences:
ALCOHOL-BASED HAND SANITISERS
Alcohol-based sanitisers consist of between 60-95% alcohol in ethanol, propanol or isopropanol. Alcohol-based sanitisers can be very harsh on the skin, however, it is very effective in killing germs and restricting infection.
ALCOHOL FREE SANITISERS
Alcohol free sanitisers consist of antiseptic or antimicrobial agents, which are very effective in destroying microorganisms. Most alcohol free sanitisers also act as moisturiser for your skin, which safeguards your hands against dryness.
GEL-BASED HAND SANITISER
Gel and alcohol based hand sanitisers are similar in their effect, both contain 60-95% alcohol. Gel -hand sanitizer is ideal for keeping your hands clean throughout the day. It is easy to dispense and keep at hand, in your car, purse, or even around your home.
HAND SANITISER SPRAY
Hand sanitiser sprays are just as effective as gel-based sanitisers. You may need to use more to cover your hands fully, but it is able to protect you against germs and bacteria. Most hand sanitiser sprays are alcohol-based and contain up to 85% alcohol.
HAND SANITISER FOAM
Most people prefer using an alcohol-free hand sanitiser foam. It is the perfect combination of soap and water, however, hand sanitiser foam dries quicker and most of them contain emollients which protect your hands against dryness and moisturize while protecting you from germs and bacteria.
WHAT YOU SHOULD CONSIDER WHEN BUYING HAND SANITISERS
- Choose a hand sanitiser that is compatible with your skin: sanitisers containing alcohol levels higher than 60% may be effective in killing germs and bacteria, but they may also agitate your skin. If you have sensitive skin, look for a hand-sanitiser that contains at least one if not all of these emollients: vitamin E, Glycerine, Monopropylene glycol or Aloe Vera.
- Choose a product that is safe: alcohol-based hand sanitisers are flammable and should be considered hazardous. When opting for an alcohol-based hand sanitiser, please make sure it is kept far away from heat or appliances and away from your kids.
- Choose a convenient product: pocket hand sanitisers are a great choice, especially for travelling, camping or going to the grocery store. They can easily be stored on your person, in your bag or in the car.
We recommend choosing a alcohol-free hand sanitiser with 24-hour protection against germs and bacteria. This will help you take care of your skin as well as your immune system. Check out Hygiene Labs and their stellar collection of alcohol-free hand sanitisers. They’re trusted by big brands, including Honda, Audi and Singapore Airlines.
