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Should You DIY Hand Sanitizer? Health Experts Weigh in
The need for hand sanitizers has recently skyrocketed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, many people have made hand sanitizers at home as an alternative to commercial products that may need more supply or are more difficult to find.
However, the question remains: Is DIY hand sanitizer safe at home? Health experts have weighed in on this issue and have provided some insights.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals use hand sanitizers that contain at least 60% alcohol to kill germs and bacteria on their hands effectively. While it is possible to make hand sanitizer at home using ingredients such as rubbing alcohol and aloe vera gel, it can be difficult to ensure that the resulting mixture has the right concentration of alcohol.
Ultimately, it is up to individuals to weigh the risks and benefits of DIY hand sanitizer and make an informed decision based on their circumstances and resources. However, it is important to prioritize safety and follow the guidance of health experts to protect oneself and others from the spread of COVID-19 and other illnesses.
Benefits of DIY Hand Sanitizer
Here are some potential benefits of DIY hand sanitizer −
Accessibility and Convenience − DIY hand sanitizer can be easily made at home with readily available ingredients at most grocery stores or pharmacies. This can be especially helpful during high demand when commercial hand sanitizers may be sold out.
Cost-effectiveness − Using hand sanitizer can be more cost-effective than buying commercial products. The ingredients needed to make DIY hand sanitizers, such as isopropyl alcohol and aloe vera gel, are typically less expensive than pre-made hand sanitizers.
Ability to Customize Ingredients − When making your hand sanitizer, you can customize the ingredients to fit your preferences and needs. For example, you can add essential oils for fragrance or moisturizing ingredients for added skin benefits.
Risks of DIY Hand Sanitizer
While DIY hand sanitizer can be a convenient and cost-effective option, there are also some potential risks. Here are some of the main dangers of DIY hand sanitizer −
Inaccurate Measurements Leading to Ineffective or Harmful Results − DIY hand sanitizer recipes typically call for a specific ratio of ingredients, such as isopropyl alcohol and aloe vera gel. If these ingredients are not measured correctly, the resulting hand sanitizer may not be effective in killing germs, or it may be too harsh on the skin. Inaccurate measurements can also lead to a hand sanitizer that needs to be stronger and more effective in preventing the spread of germs.
Lack of Quality Control and Regulation − The FDA regulates commercial hand sanitizers, ensuring they meet certain safety and efficacy standards. On the other hand, DIY hand sanitizer is not held similarly. This means there may be variability in the effectiveness of DIY hand sanitizers and no guarantee that they will meet the same safety standards as commercial products.
The danger of Using Incorrect Ingredients or Substitutions − Some DIY hand sanitizer recipes call for substitutions or alternatives to isopropyl alcohol, such as vodka or other types of alcohol. However, these substitutions may not be as effective in killing germs and could even be dangerous to use on the skin. Additionally, some recipes may call for adding harmful ingredients, such as hydrogen peroxide, if ingested or used improperly.
Skin Irritation and Sensitivity − Using hand sanitizer frequently can cause skin irritation or sensitivity, especially if the sanitizer is too harsh or contains ingredients unsuitable for sensitive skin. DIY hand sanitizer may be even more likely to cause skin irritation if it is not properly measured or if the recipe contains harsh ingredients.
Fire Hazard − Isopropyl alcohol, a common ingredient in DIY hand sanitizer recipes, is highly flammable. If not stored or used properly, it can be a fire hazard.
Health Experts' Opinions on DIY Hand Sanitizer
Regarding DIY hand sanitizer, health experts have varying opinions on whether or not it is a safe and effective option. Here are some of the main arguments for and against DIY hand sanitizer, as well as recommendations from health experts −
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Health Experts' Recommendations
Use Commercial Hand Sanitizer When Possible − Health experts generally recommend using commercial hand sanitizer whenever possible, as these products have been tested for safety and effectiveness.
Follow Reliable DIY Recipes − If you decide to make your own hand sanitizer, following a reliable recipe and measuring ingredients accurately to ensure effectiveness is important.
Avoid Substitutions − Health experts recommend avoiding substitutions for isopropyl alcohol, as these alternatives may not be as effective in killing germs or could be dangerous.
Be Aware of Risks − Health experts advise being aware of the potential risks associated with DIY hand sanitizer, including inaccurate measurements, lack of quality control, potential health risks, and skin irritation.
Conclusion
After weighing the benefits and risks of DIY hand sanitizer, it is clear that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether it is a safe and effective option. While DIY hand sanitizer can be a convenient and cost-effective alternative to commercial products, there are also potential risks to consider, such as inaccurate measurements, lack of quality control, and potential health risks.
Health experts recommend using commercial hand sanitizer when possible, as these products have been tested for safety and efficacy. However, if you decide to make your own hand sanitizer, following reliable recipes and measuring ingredients accurately is important to ensure effectiveness. It is also recommended to avoid substitutions for isopropyl alcohol and be aware of potential risks such as skin irritation and fire hazards.
Ultimately, the decision to use DIY hand sanitizer versus commercial products is a personal one that should be made based on individual preferences and circumstances. However, weighing the benefits and risks is important, as making an informed decision prioritizes safety and effectiveness.
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