- Are hydroalcoholic gels effective?
Yes, thanks to the alcohol they contain, these disinfectant hand gels eliminate viruses and bacteria on the hands. As long as it contains at least 60% alcohol and is used correctly. Namely, rub your hands for 30 seconds, insisting between the fingers, on the fingernails …
- Is the composition of hydroalcoholic solutions safe?
For adults, including pregnant women, and for children over 3 years old, these hand sanitizer gels are suitable. Because, once applied to the skin, the alcohol will evaporate almost immediately. “There would therefore be no risk of percutaneous penetration or inhalation of ethanol, even if it is used several times a day”, specifies Dr Nathalia Bellon, pediatric dermatologist *. On the other hand, for children under 3 years old, these hydroalcoholic gels are clearly not recommended. “At this age, the skin is too permeable and the surface of the hands is larger in relation to the weight than in adults, which can increase the amount of ethanol present in the bloodstream in the event of skin penetration, adds Isabelle. Le Fur, Dr in Pharmacy specializing in skin biology and dermocosmetology. In addition, toddlers put their hands to their mouths and risk ingesting the product ”.
In video: Teaching your child to wash their hands
- What precautions should be taken when using disinfectant hand gels?
For adults and those over 3 years old, hydroalcoholic solutions can be used occasionally, when neither water nor soap is available. As a reminder, it is better to use cold water so as not to irritate the hands too much. “In addition, in cold weather, the skin is weakened and these products can worsen irritation. It is therefore recommended to regularly moisturize your hands with an emolient cream, ”notes Dr Nathalia Bellon. Another precaution: if you are diabetic, it is better not to use it before a capillary blood glucose measurement on your finger. They contain glycerin, a derivative of sugar, which will falsify the test.
- What are the alternatives to hydroalcoholic gels?
Based on ionized water or disinfectant, the non-rinsing and alcohol-free products are just as effective at killing viruses and bacteria. And since they do not contain alcohol, they can be used occasionally in children under 3, but not in babies as a precaution.
* Pediatric dermatologist and dermatologist-allergist at Necker-Enfants Malades hospital (Paris) and member of the French Dermatology Society (SFD).
Gel hydroalcooliques : attention, danger !
With hydroalcoholic gels, there is an increase in cases of projection in the eyes of children, especially with distributors in public places that are right up to their face, as well as an increase in cases of accidental ingestion. So put out of reach of kids to prevent accidents.