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Debunking Some of the Most Common Hand Sanitiser Myths

by Jim Arbogast, Ph.D. Vice President of Hygiene Sciences and Public Health Advancements, GOJO Industries

As you know, alcohol-based hand sanitizers play a key role in keeping us healthy – especially during the winter-germ season. In fact, practicing good hand hygiene – handwashing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when hands are not visibly soiled – is one of the easiest and most effective ways to stay healthy.  So, it is important for us to understand the facts about hand sanitizers.

Yet, there are many misconceptions about alcohol-based hand sanitizers, and we wanted to take this opportunity to set the record straight.

Truth: All Hand Sanitizers ARE NOT the Same. Formulation Matters.
Alcohol-based and non-alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not the same; in fact, they are very different. The truth is that the formulation matters. The active ingredient is important but the total formulation affects the antimicrobial efficacy. The product also has to deliver good skin care performance – at least not damage the skin. And the third important point is that it provides a good sensory experience: it’s likeable in use.

Truth: Alcohol-based Hand Sanitizers DO NOT Contain Triclosan
One of the most common myths with alcohol-based hand sanitizers is that they contain triclosan. The truth is that PURELL® Advanced Hand Sanitizer and other alcohol-based products do not contain triclosan. In the United States, the FDA requires that triclosan not be used in products that are left on the skin.

Truth: Using Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers DO NOT Dry Your Hands
Many believe the frequent use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers will dry out your hands or your skin. The truth is that formulation matters. PURELL® Advanced Hand Sanitizer has been developed to be used repeatedly without damaging the skin.  

The truth is that good hand hygiene, which includes using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, is a strong preventive measure you can take to reduce the spread of illness-causing germs and risk of illness. 

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