Soap vs hand sanitiser: Understanding the risks of overuse and maintaining healthy skin with safer alternatives

After the COVID-19 pandemic, hand sanitisers became an essential part of daily hygiene routines. While effective in reducing the spread of viruses, excessive and frequent use—sometimes multiple times an hour—can have unintended effects on skin health. Experts like Dr. Kunal Sood, an anesthesiology and interventional pain medicine specialist, caution that overusing alcohol-based sanitisers can strip the skin of its natural oils and beneficial bacteria. This disruption can lead to dryness, irritation, cracking, and even conditions like eczema or dermatitis, weakening the skin’s natural protective barrier. For optimal hand hygiene, experts recommend using soap and water whenever possible and reserving hand sanitisers for situations where washing is not feasible.Most hand sanitisers are alcohol-based, containing 60–70% ethanol or isopropyl alcohol. They work by killing bacteria, viruses, and other microbes on the skin. While effective in emergencies where soap and water are unavailable, alcohol-based products can strip the skin of natural oils and disrupt its microbiome.The skin microbiome consists of beneficial bacteria that protect against harmful pathogens. Excessive sanitiser use can reduce these “good” bacteria, making the skin more vulnerable to irritation, dryness, cracking, and infections.According to Dr. Kunal Sood, “Frequent application of alcohol-based hand sanitisers can lead to conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, and chronic dryness.” These conditions weaken the skin’s natural barrier, making it less effective at protecting against harmful bacteria and viruses.Other potential risks include:While hand sanitisers are convenient, soap and water remain the most effective method for maintaining hand hygiene. Washing hands for at least 20 seconds removes dirt, grease, and microbes without causing as much damage to the skin.Dr. Dan Khaytman, a nutrition coach, emphasizes that applying soap on wet hands rather than dry ensures better cleaning, as water helps dissolve oils and dirt more effectively. Using soap also preserves the skin’s natural oils and microbial balance, which are crucial for long-term skin health.Hand sanitisers are best reserved for situations where washing is not feasible:Moderation is key. Dr. Sood advises using hand sanitisers sparingly to avoid skin damage and irritation.To protect your skin while staying hygienic, experts recommend:Disclaimer:This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for personalized recommendations.Also Read | Green tea vs lemon water for glowing skin: Myths, benefits, and expert-backed skincare secrets