Tag: hand sanitizer myths

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Hand Sanitizer

Hand Sanitizer vs Soap and Water

Our lives have undoubtedly changed over the last two years. Many of us have not only ramped up our cleaning and hand washing routines, but have even incorporated more portable hand sanitizers into our lives as well. As such, dermatologists have begun to notice an increase in skin sensitivity issues. Including dryness, itchiness, and, in some cases, eczema. While these conditions can often be caused by regular allergies and stress, consistent use of chemical based products on the skin appears to be a common factor.

Are These Issues Related To Hand Sanitizer Use?

For many people, the increase in washing and sanitizing is a drastic change from the hygiene routine from even a few years ago. The sudden change in routine can be disruptive to the skin barrier. While we certainly want to continue being mindful about personal hygiene, we also want to be aware of the impacts this can have on our skin. 

Both alcohol based sanitizers and harsh cleaning products can have an affect on our skin. But not everyone. Some people have a higher tolerance to alkaline and chemical based products, but other people are especially sensitive to the repeated exposure. If you’ve noticed changes in your skin this year, consider the type of hand sanitizer and cleaning products you are using and how often you touch your face after application. It could very well be the reason that your skin is itchy and dry. 

Ingredients Causing Skin Irritation 

Repeated exposure to high alcohol levels can make your skin more susceptible to infection, allergic reactions, dryness, and other skin conditions such as eczema. However, many hand sanitizers include other ingredients to help moisturize the outer layer of skin. . But it is most likely the combination of hand sanitizer in addition to these harsh household cleaners causing the irritation. The ingredients in those products can include lye, sulfuric acid, ammonia, and other harsh chemicals that may dry or damage your skin. 

Solutions for Protecting Your Skin 

While we certainly don’t want to stop washing our hands, using hand sanitizer, or cleaning, there are a few smart solutions that may help protect your skin. Be sure to use warm water – opposed to hot – when washing your hands, and keep a trusted moisturizer nearby for reapplication throughout the day. You can also use a vinegar based hand sanitizer, which is just as effective but less severe than alcohol based sanitizers


Need clean hands in a pinch? A Signitizer, filled with moisturizing hand sanitizer, is your solution. Contact us at 416-640-4477 or info@thesignitizer.com for more information.

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Hand Sanitizer

Are Scented Hand Sanitizers Effective?

Hand sanitizer is an essential item, especially in busy commercial spaces, hospitals, daycares and schools, as well as office buildings. And with so many people using hand sanitizer multiple times throughout the day, the global hand sanitizer market is expected to grow to $2.14 billion by 2027! Manufacturers have caught on, and hand sanitizer products are booming. From gels and creams to colors, glitter, and scents – there are numerous brands and options of hand sanitizer available. But all these choices may make it difficult to know what’s effective and what’s less worth your time. In this article, we will take a closer look at a popular scented hand sanitizer – Bath and Body Works.

Bath & Body Works Scented Sanitizer

For more than 20 years, Bath & Body Works has created scents and hundreds of products for body care and home fragrance items. Including, hand sanitizer! Bath & Body Works hand sanitizers are formulated with 62 to 80 percent ethyl alcohol, which is in compliance with FDA requirements. Its website also states that it doesn’t use methanol in any products, assuring that their hand sanitizers are safe to use and meet all FDA requirements.

Pro’s of Bath & Body Works Scented Sanitizers

  • Popular name brand
  • Has 71 percent ethyl alcohol
  • Enriched with essential oils, shea, vitamin E and aloe
  • Kills most common germs
  • Available in many fun year-round and seasonal scents
  • Amazing fragrances

Con’s of Bath & Body Works Scented Sanitizers

  • Far more expensive than other brands
  • Available only in smaller quantities
  • Contains artificial fragrances and colors

So, while the percent of alcohol ensures that these sanitizers can be effective – they may also come with skin irritations or other side effects due to the artificial fragrances and coloring not found in a standard sanitizer.
It is best to completely avoid artificial scents in hand sanitizer products whenever possible. If you so desire, there are natural ways to add scents to hand sanitizer that are not harmful to you or the environment, such as essential oils. Contact us at 416-640-4477 or info@thesignitizer.com for more information.

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Hand Sanitizer

How Long Does Hand Sanitizer Last?

How Long Does Hand Sanitizer Last
How Long Does Hand Sanitizer Last

While many experts stand by hand-washing being the best option for reducing the transmission of germs, hand sanitizer is much more convenient and practical. And these days, when practical removal of pathogens is imperative, hand sanitizer has become quite the popular demand. As more and more people hop on board, more and more questions have come up. What exactly IS hand sanitizer? How long does it actually work for? Luckily, the team at Signitizer is here to answer all of those questions for you.

What Is Hand Sanitizer?

Also called hand antiseptic, hand sanitizers are formulas applied to the hand to expel disease-causing organisms. They are available in gel, liquid, or foam forms. These hand rubs are widely recommended for use in highly populated settings – from schools to daycare centers and health care clinics to grocery stores. While sanitizers are great at managing disease transmission, this effectiveness is based largely on alcohol percentage, contact time, and whether or not your skin was dirty before use. That being said, alcohol based sanitizers of at least 60% are found to be the MOST effective against bacteria and viruses.

How Long Does Hand Sanitizer Last After Application?

Make sure you are sitting down for this. Hand Sanitizers effectiveness is only good for two minutes after application. A recent survey found that over 50% of the American population mistakenly believed that hand sanitizers were still active after one hour! Despite the short life span, hand sanitizers are still optimal for using in a quick pinch. Those two minutes are imperative after, say, touching a door knob or shaking a hand.

Does Hand Sanitizer Expire?

Absolutely. Alcohol naturally begins to evaporate when exposed to air. And while many manufacturers work hard to create airtight containers, eventually the alcohol “escapes” over time. As this happens, the efficiency of the hand sanitizer is reduced. While reputable hand sanitizers will display an expiration date, if you can’t find one, expect the hand sanitizer to be no good after three years.

We hope you enjoyed these fun facts about hand sanitizer! To learn more about how the Signitizer can protect you from disease, contact us at 416-640-4477 or info@thesignitizer.com.