Products
Hand disinfectant gels are available, for example, in pharmacies and drugstores.
Structure and properties
Hand disinfectant gels are gelled liquids (gels) for external application on the hands, which contain one or more disinfectants. Typical ingredients are:
- Disinfectants such as ethanol, propanol and isopropanol (propan-1-ol, propan-2-ol).
- Purified water
- Gel formers such as celluloses and carbomers. It should be noted that not all are compatible with alcohols.
- Skin care agents such as glycerol and propylene glycol.
- Denaturants
- Other excipients, e.g. triethanolamine
Optional ingredients (may cause adverse effects):
- Fragrances
- Plant extracts and ingredients such as aloe vera or essential oils (eg tea tree oil).
- Dyes such as patent blue V
Effects
Hand disinfectant gels have disinfecting (antiseptic) properties. They are active against infectious pathogens such as viruses, bacteria and fungi. Gels are thicker than disinfectant solutions and are therefore less likely to spill. Both application and carry along are therefore easier.
Dosage
According to the directions for use. The gel is applied to the hands and used according to the instructions for hygienic hand disinfection. It is important to ensure a sufficiently long exposure time of at least 30 seconds. In practice, this time is often considerably shorter. During this time, the hands should remain moist. Hand disinfection is an alternative to hand washing. It can be carried out easily and everywhere on the go, even without water and soap.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Open, diseased or injured skin
- Application on mucous membranes
- Application near the eyes or mouth, application in the ear.
Disinfectants must not be ingested. The agents and their vapors are often highly flammable and should not be used or stored near sources of ignition. Do not smoke. They may also be ignited by an electric current. Keep out of reach of children. Refer to the directions for use and package for complete precautions.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include allergic reactions to the ingredients, skin irritation, dry skin, and hand eczema, especially with regular use. Disinfectants can stain textiles and surfaces and disrupt the skin‘s natural microbiome.
