Hand sanitisers come in a squeeze bottle or pump and is used without water. A small amount is poured on the hands and rubbed over all surfaces until it dries (or evaporates).

Most hand sanitisers are alcohol based and ideally have a very high alcohol content. They strip away the outer layer of oil on the skin, which prevents bacteria inside the body from surfacing onto the hand.

Look Out for…

"When you buy a hand sanitiser, check the contents for antibiotics like trichosan. This makes it more effective.," says Dermatologist, Dr. Jitesh Shetty.

A good hand sanitiser should ideally have an alcohol concentration of 60% and above. Dr. Shetty says that the more alcohol there is in the sanitiser, the less soapy it becomes. Also, it is essential for killing the germs.

Will it Work?

Commercially used hand sanitisers with an alcohol concentration of 60% and above are fairly effective.

However, alcohol does not cut through grime well. So if there is visible muck on your hands you must wash that away with soap and water.

Can sanitisers be used instead of soap and water? "Yes," says Dr. Shetty. "No known allergies have been reported so far. And unless you are allergic to alcohol or perfume, sanitisers are convenient."

Also, as soap is alkaline, over usage can lead to skin irritation.

Sounding Caution

Hand sanitisers are safe for kids but it is not highly advisable. "Children have sensitive skin and are more prone to irritation," says Dr. Shetty.

So it is safer for kids to go with the conventional method of cleaning hands - using soap and water.

Sanitisers should ideally be used 15 minutes before touching food. Also be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with water to avoid any remnants of the alcohol.