Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are less damaging than soap and water — but "less damaging" doesn't mean harmless. With dozens of applications per shift, even relatively gentle products cause cumulative effects.
How Sanitizers Affect Skin
Alcohol dissolves skin lipids — the oils that keep skin flexible and form its protective barrier. Each application removes some lipids. Between applications, skin partially restores its barrier. When applications outpace restoration, drying and cracking result.
The 60-95% alcohol concentration needed for antimicrobial effectiveness is also the concentration that most affects skin lipids. There's no getting around this tradeoff.
Despite these effects, sanitizers cause less skin damage than soap and water. When hands aren't visibly soiled, using sanitizer preserves hand integrity better than washing. Follow your facility's guidelines for when each is appropriate.
Damage Reduction Strategies
Choose Emollient-Containing Products
Sanitizers formulated with emollients cause less drying. If your facility offers a choice, select products that include moisturizing ingredients.
Apply Properly
Use enough product to keep hands wet for 15-20 seconds of rubbing. Less product means incomplete coverage and incomplete protection. But there's no benefit to excess.
Moisturize Alongside
Moisturizer after sanitizer application is possible — wait for the sanitizer to dry completely first. A small amount of cream won't interfere with the sanitizer's effectiveness and will help restore skin lipids.
When Sanitizer Stings
Stinging on application indicates existing skin damage. Sanitizer in cracks hurts. This pain leads some workers to avoid hand hygiene — exactly the wrong response. Instead, cover cracks with self-adhering tape before sanitizing. The tape protects damaged skin while allowing sanitizer to reach intact areas.