With the outbreak of the pandemic, everyone's attention has shifted to hygiene and cleanliness. The addition of new safety norms majorly focuses on hand hygiene. Unknowingly through our hands, we come in contact with surfaces that could result in infection. Precautionary measures such as hand sanitizer are in huge demand to keep us safe.
The effective use of sanitizer is to kill germs. To serve this purpose, sanitizer is available in many variants. Majorly they are differentiated into two categories, alcohol-based and alcohol-free sanitizers. Alcohol is the most reliable component in a hand sanitizer that has been thoroughly proved to eliminate germs on hands. However, frequent usage of sanitizer withdraws moisture from the skin. As a result, skin may become dry, flaky, and hypersensitive to touch.
With the huge demand for a better alternative to replace alcohol, several manufacturers came up with a solution. A range of sanitizer was introduced that doesn’t include drying or alcoholic components. These sanitizers contain antimicrobials that provide long-lasting germ protection without drying hands.
Generally, alcohol-based sanitizers have a shelf life of two to three years. The alcohol content in a bottle of hand sanitizer reduces as it evaporates, and its efficacy diminishes as it falls below 60% concentration.
If you are wondering whether alcohol-free hand sanitizers have an expiration date or not, then the answer is yes. Every product has an expiration date beyond which it fails to provide the desired result. Hand sanitizers are regulated by the FDA, which requires manufacturers to include an expiry date. One is always advised to check the label whether sanitizer is still usable. If no date is specified, the product life can be estimated to be about 2-3 years from the date of manufacturing.
Some people ask if you can use expired sanitizer in case of emergencies. Although using expired hand sanitizer is not hazardous, it is not suggested since it is likely to be less effective. Conversely, in situations where there is no other option, a less effective sanitizer is more preferable than not sanitizing at all.
Since the pandemic hit, people have been extra precautious, and have been maintaining hygiene to avoid the transmission of infection. While leaving the house, always have a pocket sanitizer with you.
However, it is also not advisable to use hand sanitizer at home. Instead opt for soap, scrub for at least 20 seconds to ensure complete protection. Another more subtle safety measure is Tatsa Hand Cream, a gentle formulation of cocoa, shea butter and alcohol free sanitizer.
Made with the nourishing goodness of cocoa and shea butter, it keeps your skin healthy and soft, while the alcohol free sanitizer in the composition protects your hands.
The need of the hour is to be a smart consumer. Switch to safety that is supple in nature for you and your loved ones.