In March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, impacting lives and economies in unprecedented ways. Within a matter of weeks, a virus that began as a localized outbreak transformed into a worldwide crisis. Countries went into lockdown, established businesses faced bankruptcy, and millions fell ill. Amidst the chaos, fear of contracting the virus led to a surge in preventive measures. The CDC advocated for frequent hand-washing and the use of hand sanitizer, which resulted in store shelves being stripped bare of these essential supplies, including toilet paper. While many opted to purchase hand sanitizer online, they soon discovered that those stocks were depleted as well. This shortage prompted individuals to explore DIY alternatives for hand sanitization. While rubbing alcohol is not identical to hand sanitizer, it possesses many similar characteristics. Both are effective against bacteria, capable of killing viruses, and widely utilized in medical settings as versatile sanitizers. In this article, I will delve into the distinctions between rubbing alcohol and hand sanitizer, along with the advantages and disadvantages of using alcohol as an alternative to commercial sanitizers.
Differences Between Rubbing Alcohol and Hand Sanitizer
The primary distinction between isopropyl rubbing alcohol and hand sanitizer lies in their consistency. Isopropyl rubbing alcohol is readily available at pharmacies or grocery stores in the first aid aisle. It is often used as a topical antiseptic, a general-purpose cleaner, and has a myriad of other applications. Typically, it comes pre-diluted with water, containing 50% to 90% alcohol mixed with water. Similarly, hand sanitizer is also diluted to a comparable concentration, with most formulations containing around 60% pure alcohol and 40% additional ingredients. These supplementary ingredients usually comprise synthetic gels that help stabilize the mixture and facilitate its application on hands. A significant difference is that most hand sanitizers include moisturizing agents, such as Aloe Vera or Vitamin E, which counteract the drying effects of alcohol. This is important, as alcohol can strip the skin of its natural oils, leaving hands feeling parched.
Ethyl Alcohol versus Isopropyl Alcohol
As demand for both hand sanitizers and rubbing alcohol surged, it became increasingly challenging to find either product. In response, many distilleries and farms pivoted to produce another type of alcohol—Ethyl Alcohol or ethanol. Ethanol is derived from the fermentation of grain sugars and exhibits many of the antibacterial properties found in isopropyl alcohol, but with a lower level of toxicity. Grain alcohol can be consumed in lower concentrations as a beverage (commonly referred to as Everclear). Consequently, a plethora of ethanol-based hand sanitizers flooded the market. Although both forms of alcohol are nearly equally effective for sanitation, ethyl alcohol tends to leave hands drier than isopropyl alcohol. While this may be beneficial for developing “guitar hands,” most people prefer not to have parched fingers. For this reason, isopropyl alcohol is often considered more suitable for topical use. Despite this difference, both types of alcohol effectively denature virus proteins.
Is Rubbing Alcohol More Effective for Sanitizing Than Hand Washing?
Throughout 2020, the prevalence of hand sanitizer in our lives was overwhelming. Every store, online and physical, seemed to be selling it, and it was a constant topic in the media. Many Americans, myself included, became so engrossed in the sanitizer frenzy that we neglected the age-old practice of hand washing. This oversight was a mistake. According to the CDC, washing your hands is nearly always more effective in eliminating bacteria and germs than using rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer. Experts recommend utilizing sanitizer primarily when hand washing is not feasible. The reasoning behind this is that hand sanitizer is less effective when dirt, grease, or grime is present on the hands. Such substances can trap bacteria beneath them, creating a barrier that prevents the sanitizer from reaching the germs. In contrast, soap effectively removes dirt and washes away all the bacteria underneath.
Can Rubbing Alcohol Be Used as Hand Sanitizer?
Given the challenges in finding hand sanitizer in stores, a common question arises: can rubbing alcohol be used as a substitute for hand sanitizer? The straightforward answer is yes, it can. However, there are several pros and cons to consider.
Pros and Cons of Using Rubbing Alcohol as a Sanitizer
The most significant advantage of using rubbing alcohol for hand sanitation is its availability. If you are reading this article, you likely have a bottle of rubbing alcohol readily accessible at home. Additionally, rubbing alcohol is easy to use; due to its less viscous nature compared to hand sanitizers, it can be spread more efficiently. A small amount of rubbing alcohol goes a long way, while gel-based sanitizers tend to be used up more quickly. On the downside, rubbing alcohol can leave your hands feeling extremely dry. Being a natural astringent, it draws moisture away from your skin and can lead to irritation or eczema, especially for those with sensitive skin. In contrast, hand sanitizers often contain moisturizing ingredients designed to mitigate the drying effects of alcohol. If you find yourself using rubbing alcohol as a substitute, be sure to follow it with a nourishing moisturizer. Products containing shea butter, Vitamin E oil, and other natural compounds will help rehydrate your skin and form a protective barrier.
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