Why you shouldn't make vodka hand sanitizer
Health / / December 28, 2020
Due to the rapid spread of the coronavirus, there is a widespread lack of antiseptic. In this case, it is very tempting to make it at home from strong alcohol - for example, from vodka. But don't be in a hurry. By words scientists, this is not the right ingredient.
Yes, alcohol can kill bacteria and viruses. It does this by destroying the protein structure in them (a process called denaturation). But in order for it to happen, the alcohol content in the liquid must be at least 60%Epidemiologic Background of Hand Hygiene and Evaluation of the Most Important Agents for Scrubs and Rubs..
Vodka contains only 40% alcohol. In the end, you will simply waste the drink and not protect yourself.
However, this does not mean that it is time to start using 96% medicinal alcohol from the pharmacy. Surprisingly, it is also not suitable as a ready-made antiseptic. Protein denaturation is more effective when a small amount of water is added to the alcohol. In its pure form, it evaporates too quickly and does not have time to destroy bacteria and viruses.
In addition, rubbing alcohol will quickly dry out your hands and cause irritation. Treating irritated skin is unpleasant, which means you are more likely to do it less often. In addition, if cracks appear on the skin, the risk of infection will only increase. Emollients are added to store-bought antiseptics specifically to combat this problem.
In the home version, you also need to introduce emollient ingredients - glycerin and aloe gel. We've detailed the recipes with both options here.
Take noteš§“
- How to make a hand sanitizer that definitely works
And of course, remember to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water as often as possible. WHO recommends do this for 40-60 seconds, while not forgetting about the skin between the fingers and under the nails.
Read alsoš§
- How not to catch a virus on public transport
- How long does coronavirus live on different surfaces
- What is coronavirus and how not to get it