Antibacterial gel: Use and precautions : Your online pharmacy selection

What is antibacterial gel and how does it work?

Antibacterial gel, also known as hydroalcoholic gel, is a solution used to clean hands and eliminate germs and bacteria. It is mainly composed of alcohol (ethanol or isopropanol), which acts as a powerful disinfectant by destroying the proteins and breaking down the lipids of pathogens. This product requires no water and is ideal for rapid hand hygiene, especially in situations where access to soap and water is limited.

What are the advantages of antibacterial gel over traditional handwashing?

Using antibacterial gel offers a number of advantages, including portability and ease of use. It offers fast, effective disinfection, which is essential in medical environments or when on the move. However, it's important to note that handwashing with soap and water is more effective at removing certain types of germs and visible dirt. Antibacterial gel is an excellent alternative when these traditional means are not available.

How do I use antibacterial gel correctly to maximize its effectiveness?

For optimum use, apply a sufficient amount of gel to the palm of your hand (about a teaspoon) and rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds. Make sure you cover all the surfaces of your hands, including between the fingers, around the nails and up to the wrists. Leave to dry without wiping to allow the alcohol to disinfect your hands completely.

What precautions should I take when using antibacterial gel?

It's crucial to check the alcohol concentration of antibacterial gel; a concentration of 60% to 95% is recommended to be effective against most bacteria and viruses. Avoid gels with potentially allergenic or skin-irritating additives. Do not use on visibly dirty or greasy hands, as this may reduce its effectiveness. Also, keep the gel away from flames or heat sources, as alcohol is flammable.

Can I make my own antibacterial gel, and is this recommended?

You can consider making your own antibacterial gel, but you need to follow recipes that comply with recommended health standards. Use 90% alcohol or higher, aloe vera gel to soften the skin and a few drops of essential oil for fragrance. However, to guarantee effectiveness and safety, it's best to opt for commercial products certified by health authorities.

What is the environmental impact of the massive use of antibacterial gel?

The environmental impact of antibacterial gel is becoming a cause for concern as its use increases, notably due to the intensive production of alcohol and the growing volume of plastic waste generated by packaging. To minimize this impact, opt for recyclable or refillable packaging and biodegradable formulas.

Can antibacterial gel replace hand washing in hospitals?

No, antibacterial gel cannot completely replace handwashing with soap and water in hospitals. Although effective in eliminating a wide variety of germs, traditional handwashing is indispensable for removing biological contaminants and visible residues. In hospital environments, hand washing is essential before and after every patient contact, especially when handling sterile equipment or infected areas.

What types of antibacterial gels are available on the market?

There are several types of antibacterial gels, varying according to alcohol concentration, the presence of fragrances, moisturizing agents such as aloe vera or skin vitamins. Fragrance-free formulas are recommended for users sensitive to skin irritation. What's more, some gels contain additional antimicrobial agents to boost their effectiveness against resistant bacteria.

Is antibacterial gel safe for children?

Antibacterial gel should be used with caution on children. It is recommended for children over three under adult supervision to avoid accidental ingestion, which can be toxic. It's also important to choose gentle formulas, enriched with moisturizing agents to avoid drying out children's delicate skin. For infants and young children, hand washing with water and mild soap remains the safest and most suitable method.

How does antibacterial gel affect antibiotic resistance?

Frequent use of antibacterial gels does not directly contribute to antibiotic resistance, as they contain mainly alcohol and not specific antibacterial agents. However, excessive and incorrect use can potentially affect the skin's microbiome, reducing its natural ability to protect itself against infection and encouraging the proliferation of resistant bacteria.

Can antibacterial gel be used on other parts of the body?

Antibacterial gel is formulated specifically for hands and should not be applied to other parts of the body, such as the face or intimate areas, as it may cause irritation or allergic reactions. For disinfecting other parts of the body, it is advisable to use products specially designed for this purpose, following the recommendations of health professionals.