How to Use Hand Cleanser and Hand Sanitizer, as Explained by Im Eeseok Thema Dermatology Clinic

How to Use Hand Cleanser and Hand Sanitizer

Hello, this is Im Eeseok Thema Dermatology Clinic.

These days, many people are likely paying close attention to disinfection and cleanliness because of concerns about the novel coronavirus infection. As the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has emphasized personal hygiene such as wearing masks and washing hands, demand for hygiene products such as masks, hand sanitizers, and hand cleansers has surged, and popular products are selling out or experiencing temporary shortages. Some people are even making their own. More and more people are also carrying cleansers and sanitizers with them at all times. So today, we would like to talk about the proper way to apply hand sanitizer and hand cleanser.

Hand cleanser is a water-based soap or hand wash used for washing hands, but some people mistake it for hand sanitizer. Using both the hand cleanser used at home and the hand sanitizer used outdoors when there is no water or soap too often can cause dry skin on the hands, and worsened hand symptoms may crack and bleed, causing pain, so caution is needed. Let me explain hand cleanser and hand sanitizer in more detail.

Hand cleanser

Hand cleanser is a cosmetic product for hand cleansing and cleanliness. It is used together with water in places where water is available to rinse away germs. Rather than washing your hands frequently, it is more important to wash them thoroughly using the proper method. You should wash your hands carefully for at least 30 seconds using hand cleanser.

How to wash your hands using hand cleanser

1. Lather thoroughly.

2. Rub palm to palm, and rub the back of one hand against the palm of the other.

3. Rub between your fingers.

4. Interlock your fingers and rub them together.

5. Rub your thumb by rotating it in the palm of the other hand.

6. Place your fingertips on the opposite palm and rub to clean under the nails.

Hand sanitizer

Hand sanitizer refers to alcohol-based hand sanitizer used when you cannot find a place to wash your hands outdoors.

Hand sanitizers generally contain 60–70% or more ethanol alcohol, and some also include fragrance or moisturizing ingredients. Hand sanitizers are medicinal products, and the alcohol content can cause allergic reactions such as dry skin, so check the ingredients before use. If your skin feels dry after using hand sanitizer, choosing a product enhanced with glycerin, a moisturizing ingredient, may help with hydration. Also, since sanitizers may be irritating to the eyes, mouth, and skin with wounds, you should be careful not to let them come into contact with those areas.

How to use hand sanitizer

Apply about a 500-won coin-sized amount of alcohol hand sanitizer to clean hands, and rub thoroughly for at least 15 seconds over the nails, palms, and backs of the hands until the hands are dry. If there is dust or oily foreign matter left on your hands, the effectiveness of the hand sanitizer will be reduced.

When purchasing hand sanitizer, check whether it is classified as a medicinal product and check the expiration date before buying. Use within 6 months after opening is recommended. If you need skin moisturization, choose one with a higher glycerin content. Hands become dry because the alcohol concentration is high. For infants and children, use only a small amount and choose one with a lower ethanol content. Use only on the hands, and be careful not to let it directly touch areas such as the eyes, mouth, or mucous membranes.

Wash your hands thoroughly for at least 30 seconds, apply hand sanitizer for 15 seconds, let it dry for 10 seconds, and do not touch your face with hands that have touched other objects outdoors. Hand washing is the best way to prevent COVID-19. Together with wearing a mask, please help prevent COVID-19 by washing your hands properly!

At Im Eeseok Thema Dermatology Clinic, we are following COVID-19 prevention guidelines for the safety of our patients. We will do our best to ensure you can visit with confidence by strictly following infection control and preventive measures. Also, if overuse of hand sanitizer and hand cleanser causes dryness, please apply a moisturizing cream, and if symptoms do not improve, we recommend visiting a hospital to receive treatment suited to each patient. If you have any questions, please contact Im Eeseok Thema Dermatology Clinic.