How to make a hand sanitizer that definitely works

What should be the composition of a hand sanitizer

For an antiseptic to be useful, it must contain at least 60% alcoholEpidemiologic background of hand hygiene and evaluation of the most important agents for scrubs and rubs.. Only in such a concentration can alcohol destroy the lipid (fatty) membrane of viruses, with which they attach to cells.

Vodka and other spirits are not suitable for these purposes: the concentration of alcohol in them is not so highShow Me the Science - When & How to Use Hand Sanitizer in Community Settings. It got to the point of ridiculousness: one of the major vodka producers already had to contactTito's Vodka has spent the last 24 hours explaining to people that it * cannot * be used as a replacement for hand sanitizer. to customers with an appeal not to use the product for disinfection.

Only technical or medical alcohols that are not suitable for ingestion have the required concentration. You can buy them, as a rule, in pharmacies or stores of technical and industrial goods.

You cannot use alcohol on its own for regular hand cleaning.

It destroys not only the shells of viruses, but also the fatty layer on the skin. This leads to excessive dryness, irritation, itching, microcracks appear, where infection can later penetrate.

For a hand sanitizer to be both effective and safe, it must combine alcohol the necessary concentration and additives that moisturize and protect the skin (for example, aloe gel and glycerol).

What tools do you need

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the necessary tools:

• A clean mixing container - for example, a low cup or bowl.
• A teaspoon or wooden spatula.
• Storage capacity. It can be a glass jar of 0.25–0.5 liters with a lid.
• Empty plastic bottle with a dispenser or spray bottle (for example, from a store sanitizer). You will need this item to carry the prepared hand sanitizer in your purse or pocket.

How to make a WHO prescription hand sanitizer

Sanitizer Option OfferedWHO Recommended Handrub Formulations: Local Manufacturing Guidelines experts of the World Health Organization, liquid, so it is most convenient to use it as a spray. You can also moisten cotton pads with it: this way you get an analogue of antiseptic wipes, which are great for wiping door handles, mobile phones, keys and other little things.

What is needed

• 100 ml of isopropyl alcohol with a concentration of 99% or higher or ethanol (medical alcohol) with a concentration of 96%. Unfortunately, in the Russian Federation, the latter is available only by prescription.
• 10 ml of hydrogen peroxide 3%. Peroxide does not kill viruses, but it fights bacterial spores that can contaminate the solution.
• 3.3 ml glycerin 98%.

How to prepare an antiseptic

Combine the ingredients thoroughly in a prepared cup or bowl. You should have a smooth liquid. Pour it into a spray bottle.

You can add 2-3 drops of any essential oil or lemon juice - optional. It won't ruin the sanitizer, but it will smell nicer. However, be careful: WHO reminds that fragrances can cause allergic reactions in some people.

How to make a hand sanitizer with aloe gel according to a virologist's prescription

This recipeHow to Make Hand Sanitizer offers the authoritative medical publication Healthline.

What is needed

• 100 ml of isopropyl alcohol with a concentration of 99% or higher or medical alcohol with a concentration of 96% (if you can buy it).
• 50 ml cosmetic aloe gel (the concentration of the aloe juice is not important).
• 3-5 drops of flavoring. Your favorite essential oil or lemon juice is suitable for this role.
• 3-4 drops of glycerin 98% - optional.

How to prepare an antiseptic

Mix all the ingredients in a prepared container. You should have a smooth, viscous liquid. For density, you can add 3-4 drops of glycerin. But no more, otherwise the product runs the risk of becoming sticky. Pour the liquid into the prepared dispenser bottle.

How to use hand sanitizer properly

In order for an antiseptic to destroy as many viruses and microbes as possible on your palms, it must be applied according to the rules. Here they are.

• Dispense a few drops of sanitizer or spray a few sprays into the palm of one hand.
• Rub your palms and fingers thoroughly. Make sure an antiseptic covers every millimeter of your brushes.
• Continue rubbing your hands until they are dry. This usually takes 30-60 seconds.

Please Note: The Sanitizer Will Not WorkShow Me the Science - When & How to Use Hand Sanitizer in Community Settingsif your hands are too dirty or greasy. Unfortunately, science has not come up with anything more effective than washing in warm water with soap for such cases.

Lifehacker has Telegram channel, where we publish the latest information on the prevention and control of coronavirus infection. Subscribe!