What is hydroalcoholic gel and how does it work?
Hydroalcoholic gel is an antiseptic solution used to disinfect hands and effectively eliminate germs, bacteria and certain viruses. Composed mainly of alcohol (ethanol or isopropanol), it works by denaturing pathogen proteins, thereby inactivating them. It is particularly recommended in situations where access to soap and water is limited.
How do I use hydroalcoholic gel correctly?
For maximum effectiveness, apply a sufficient quantity of hydroalcoholic gel to dry hands. Rub your hands together, making sure to cover all surfaces, including between fingers and under fingernails, for at least 20-30 seconds until your hands are dry. There's no need to rinse or wipe off the gel after application.
What's the difference between hydroalcoholic gel and soap?
While soap and water remain the most effective method of cleaning hands, hydroalcoholic gel offers a practical alternative when these are not available. Hydroalcoholic gel is effective for eliminating germs, but does not replace hand washing for removing visible contaminants or greasy substances.
What are the advantages of hydroalcoholic gel?
The advantages of hydroalcoholic gel include its portability, ease of use and speed of action. It's ideal for mobile situations where thorough hand washing isn't possible. What's more, this product helps to reduce the spread of infectious diseases, especially in busy or public places.
Is hydroalcoholic gel safe for everyone?
Hydro-alcoholic gel is generally safe for most people. However, it contains alcohol, which can cause skin irritation in some sensitive individuals. It is not recommended for very young children because of the risk of accidental ingestion. Always check the composition to avoid allergies to certain ingredients.
Can I make my own hydroalcoholic gel?
It is possible to make your own hydroalcoholic gel, following the recommendations of the World Health Organization. It requires 96% alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, glycerine and distilled water. However, to guarantee its effectiveness, it's crucial to respect the recommended proportions and use pharmaceutical-grade ingredients.
How to choose the best hydroalcoholic gel?
To choose an effective hydroalcoholic gel, check that the product contains at least 60% alcohol, as recommended by public health authorities. It's also a good idea to check the list of ingredients to avoid those that may cause allergies, such as perfumes or colorants. Opt for gels with moisturizing agents such as glycerine to protect your skin from drying out.
Can hydroalcoholic gel expire?
Yes, hydroalcoholic gel has an expiry date. Over time, the alcohol concentration can decrease, making the gel less effective against germs and bacteria. We recommend checking the expiry date on the packaging and storing the gel in a cool, dry place to preserve its effectiveness.
Is hydroalcoholic gel effective against all types of virus?
Hydroalcoholic gel is effective against many types of virus, especially enveloped viruses such as influenza and coronavirus. However, it is less effective against non-enveloped viruses, such as norovirus. In these cases, hand washing with soap and water is preferable.
Can hydroalcoholic gel be used on surfaces?
Although primarily designed for hands, hydroalcoholic gel can be used on certain surfaces for rapid disinfection. However, it does not replace specific surface cleaning products. For complete disinfection, we recommend the use of disinfectant products adapted to the surfaces concerned.
Are there alternatives to hydroalcoholic gel?
Yes, in addition to hydroalcoholic gel, there are alternatives such as disinfectant wipes containing alcohol or hydroalcoholic spray solutions. These alternatives can offer an effective method of disinfection, especially in contexts where the use of a gel is not practical. Always ensure that these products contain a sufficient concentration of alcohol for effective disinfection.
