Moisturizing and protecting hands : Your online pharmacy selection

Why is regular hand washing crucial?

Regular hand washing is fundamental to preventing the spread of germs and infections. Hands are a primary vector for the transmission of harmful micro-organisms that can cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to more severe infections such as gastroenteritis. Rigorous hand hygiene significantly reduces the risk of illness.

When is the best time to wash your hands?

We recommend washing your hands:

• Before and after preparing or eating food.
• After using the toilet.
• After coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.
• Before and after caring for a sick person.
• After touching animals, their food or waste.
• Before and after treating wounds or cuts.

What is the recommended technique for effective hand washing?

For effective hand washing, follow these steps:

1. Wet your hands with warm water.
2. Apply soap and rub your hands together to create a lather.
3. Rub all surfaces of your hands, including the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your fingernails, for at least 20 seconds.
4. Rinse thoroughly under running water.
5. Dry your hands with a clean towel or hand dryer.

What types of soap are most effective for hand hygiene?

Antibacterial soaps are not necessarily more effective than ordinary soaps. However, using a soap containing moisturizing agents can help prevent dry skin. Hydroalcoholic gels are a good alternative when soap and water are not available.

How can I prevent dry skin caused by frequent hand washing?

To prevent dryness, use mild soaps and moisturize your hands regularly with creams or lotions specifically designed for hands. It's also a good idea to choose products that are alcohol-free or contain ingredients such as aloe vera or glycerine.

Is hand sanitizer as effective as hand washing?

Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be an effective alternative when soap and water are not available. It is important that the sanitizer contains at least 60% alcohol to be effective against most germs.

Are there any situations where hand sanitizers are not recommended?

Hand sanitizers are not effective on visibly dirty or greasy hands. What's more, they are not effective against all types of germs, including certain bacterial spores and viruses. In these cases, hand washing with soap and water is preferable.

What are the risks of poor hand hygiene?

Poor hand hygiene can lead to the spread of infectious diseases, increasing the risk of respiratory and intestinal illnesses in both children and adults. It can also contribute to antibiotic resistance through the spread of resistant bacteria.