In the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, hand sanitizers marched onto the frontline, becoming an indispensable part of our daily routine. In the UK, as with the rest of the world, the use of hand sanitizers skyrocketed, with every pub, scholar institution, and health care facility adopting them as a primary defence against the coronavirus.
However, as we seemingly bathe our hands in sanitizers day in and out, questions arise about the potential risks this over-usage might brew. This article aims to present an unbiased, comprehensive exploration of just that. We delve into the depths of renowned science databases such as PubMed and PMC, Google Scholar search, and other credible sources to present an informed perspective of the matter at hand.
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The Science Behind Hand Sanitisers
Before we venture into the potential risks, let’s first understand how hand sanitizers work. Most hand sanitizers, including the ethanol-based ones, function by disrupting the protective outer proteins of harmful germs and bacteria, effectively neutralising them. They are a convenient alternative to soap and water, especially when those are not readily available.
The efficacy of hand sanitizers is established through numerous scientific studies. A Google Scholar search will show countless studies supporting the antimicrobial effectiveness of hand sanitizers. However, it’s important to note that sanitizers don’t eliminate all types of germs, and they’re not as effective when hands are visibly dirty or greasy.
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Are Hand Sanitisers a Double-Edged Sword for Skin Health?
It’s pertinent that we consider the impact overusing hand sanitisers might have on our skin health. Some people have reported experiencing dry, irritated skin because of frequent hand sanitizing. This is primarily because sanitizers, especially alcohol-based ones, strip away the natural oils on the skin, leading to dryness and irritation.
In some cases, overuse of hand sanitizers can lead to dermatitis, a skin condition that can cause redness, itching, and even blisters. PubMed has extensive research data on this subject. Furthermore, sanitizers can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, making it more vulnerable to infections and diseases.
The Environmental Consequences of Sanitiser Use
The environmental impact of the surge in sanitiser use is a growing concern. Each bottle of hand sanitiser contains chemicals such as ethanol, hydrogen peroxide, and more. When these chemicals find their way into our water systems, they can potentially harm aquatic life and the overall ecosystem.
Research published on PMC reveals that the presence of antimicrobials in water can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Such bacteria pose a significant threat to public health, as they are difficult to treat and can spread rapidly.
Is There Such Thing as Too Much Clean?
Another potential risk of overusing hand sanitizers relates to our immune system. It’s a well-established fact that exposure to a certain amount of germs is beneficial for our immunity. This exposure helps our immune system to build resilience against these germs. However, the overuse of hand sanitizers could interfere with this natural process.
According to the ‘Hygiene Hypothesis’, a term coined by scholars, the lack of early childhood exposure to infectious agents, symbiotic microorganisms, and parasites increases susceptibility to allergic diseases. With the constant use of sanitizers, we are potentially reducing our exposure to these infectious agents, thus risking the weakening of our immune system.
The Potential for Substance Misuse
Lastly, we must address the potential for substance misuse. Hand sanitizers, particularly those based on ethanol, contain a significant percentage of alcohol. In the hands of individuals susceptible to substance misuse, this can pose a risk. There have already been reported cases of hand sanitiser consumption for their high alcohol content, leading to serious health issues and even death.
It is important to keep these sanitizers out of reach of individuals with a history of substance misuse, as well as children. And just as important, it is crucial to maintain public awareness about the potential dangers of ingesting hand sanitiser.
This article doesn’t seek to demonise hand sanitizers, but rather to inform you of the potential risks associated with their overuse. The key takeaway here is the importance of responsible use. Hand sanitizers are an excellent tool in our fight against infectious diseases, but like with any tool, they should be used wisely and responsibly.
The Risk of Antimicrobial Resistance
The risk of antimicrobial resistance is another potential danger associated with overusing hand sanitisers. Antimicrobial resistance happens when bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms evolve to resist the drugs designed to kill them. It’s a serious global health issue that threatens the effective prevention and treatment of an ever-increasing range of infections.
A study available on PubMed shows that the extensive use of hand sanitisers, particularly those containing triclosan, can contribute to the emergence and spread of resistant bacteria. Triclosan, a common ingredient in many hand sanitisers, is suspected of leading to bacterial resistance.
Furthermore, the use of alcohol-based hand sanitisers could potentially lead to the development of alcohol-resistant strains of bacteria. A report from Google Scholar highlights the possibility of bacterial adaptation, implying that prevalent bacteria can evolve to survive the alcohol present in hand sanitisers. This underscores the importance of hand hygiene beyond using sanitizers alone, such as regular washing with soap and water.
Responsible Use is Key
Rather than abandoning the use of hand sanitisers, the key is to use them responsibly. They should be used as a supplement to, not a replacement for, proper hand hygiene practices. Hand sanitisers are not meant to clean visibly dirty hands but to sanitise hands when soap and water are not readily available.
Health care professionals and institutions should provide clear and consistent guidance on hand hygiene. This includes when and how to use hand sanitisers effectively. Google Scholar and PMC articles offer guidelines that balance the need for hygiene with the potential risks of overusing hand sanitisers.
Aside from adherence to proper hand hygiene practices, efforts should also be directed towards responsible production and disposal of hand sanitisers. Manufacturers should minimise the use of potentially harmful substances like triclosan, while consumers should be educated on proper disposal methods to mitigate environmental impact.
Conclusion
In the battle against COVID-19 and other infectious diseases, hand sanitisers have undoubtedly played a crucial role. However, it’s important to remember that they are not without potential risks. Overusing hand sanitisers can have negative implications on skin health, the environment, immunity, and could potentially lead to substance misuse and antimicrobial resistance.
While it’s important to maintain hand hygiene to protect against diseases, it’s equally essential to be aware of the potential risks and to use hand sanitisers responsibly. The key lies not in halting the use of these products but in using them judiciously alongside regular handwashing, thereby maximising their benefits and mitigating their risks.
Lastly, as with any public health issue, continuous research and public awareness are necessary. By staying informed and adapting our habits accordingly, we can ensure we are protecting not just our health, but also the health of our environment and future generations.
