The Dangers of Using Hand Sanitizers

​Hand sanitizers make it easy to clean your hands and are a convenient alternative if you are not near a bathroom.  But are you aware of the hidden dangers and harmful chemicals in hand sanitizers?

The Dangers of Using Hand Sanitizers
By Pierre Mouchette | Bits-n-Pieces

Hand Sanitizers
You might carry it in your pocket, keep it in your vehicle, and see it everywhere (supermarkets, schools, doctor's offices, and more).  Hand sanitizers come in gel, foam, and lotion form, making them easy to clean your hands and a convenient alternative if you are not near a bathroom.  But are you aware of the hidden dangers and harmful chemicals in hand sanitizer that may have you rethinking using them?
 
Antibacterial Resistance
Hand sanitizers are designed to kill microbes, such as bacteria and viruses, but what are the potential dangers of frequent use?  What happens when your body builds up a resistance to antibiotics and bacteria?  These are questions not thought about, and yes, there are consequences!
Non-alcohol-based hand sanitizers contain an antibiotic compound called triclosan or triclocarban.  This chemical is antibacterial, meaning it contributes to making bacteria resistant to antibiotics.  It is found in antiseptic soap and some toothpaste.  Products with triclosan are labeled antibacterial, antimicrobial, or antiseptic.
The problem is that when you use hand sanitizer often, you build up a resistance to antibiotics and, in turn, resistance to bacteria.  You lower your disease resistance by killing the good bacteria on your hands.
Note: When scrubbed on properly, studies find regular soap is just as good at killing potentially infectious bacteria and viruses.  Stick to the soap and water, and you will be in better hands.  Learn how to wash your hands properly by reading the CDC article 'Handwashing in Communities: Clean Hands Save Lives'
 
You Kill Good Microbiomes and Comprise Your Immune Health!
While you cannot see them, millions of bacteria are on your hands, skin, and of course, inside your gut.  It is called the microbiome.
Science tells us that the colonies of bacteria we have on and in our bodies, among other things, keep our bodies healthy and functionally correctly.  When we regularly use hand sanitizer, we kill off nearly all microbes on our hands and skin, both good and bad.  The problem is that killing potentially good or beneficial bacteria lowers your resistance to illness and disease because you are eliminating what helps your body fight off harmful bacteria.  When you have a weakened immune system, this makes it more difficult or even impossible to treat without intervention.
 
FYI

Researchers at the University of Michigan School of Public Health found that the chemical triclosan can negatively affect immune function.  In the same study, children and teens exposed to higher levels of triclosan were more likely to be diagnosed with hay fever and other allergies.
 

 
Increased Exposure to BPA
Chemicals in hand sanitizers and other cosmetic products like lotions make the skin more permeable to substances you handle, including BPA found on receipts and plastics. 
Note:  BPA is a known endocrine disruptor that interferes with the function of hormones like estrogen.
 
Alcohol Can Potentially Poison You 
Hand sanitizer often lists alcohol as the first ingredient, such as ethyl alcohol.  It is an active ingredient, working as an antiseptic.  Alcohol, the germ-killing agent in alcohol-based hand sanitizers, evaporates within seconds after you apply it to your hands.  However, some alcohol is absorbed through the skin and into your bloodstream.
 
Hand Sanitizers Are Toxic
Hand sanitizers are full of toxic chemicals.  The following are the chemicals you rub on your hands and skin each time you use sanitizers.

• Aminomethyl Propanol - a clear, colorless liquid added to skincare products to make their pH levels less acidic and more alkaline.  Research suggests it can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs.  It is also considered an environmental contaminant.
  
  
• Ethanol Alcohol - a germ-killing agent in alcohol-based hand sanitizers, evaporates within seconds after application, but some are still absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream.  Research shows it can irritate the eyes, nose, and skin.
  
  
• Fragrance - loosely regulated in the U. S. fragrance might contain 3,000-plus chemicals.  Companies are not required to disclose the ingredients that make up their scents, and when you see a label, you are likely only seeing 1/3rd or less of the actual ingredients.  The fragrances can be made from dozens of compounds, including those found to be highly toxic (such as phthalates, which are endocrine disruptors that mimic hormones and alter genital development.)
  
  
• Glycerin - is found in many skincare products, toothpaste, and processed foods.  It is made from animal or vegetable fats.  Glycerin has a low toxicity level but may irritate your skin.
  
  
• Isopropyl Myristate - is an oil derived from animal or plant fat and used as a binding agent.  It has a low toxicity level but may cause skin, eye, and lung irritation.
  
  
• Parabens - used to preserve other ingredients and extend a product's shelf life.
  
  
• Propylene Glycol - various government agencies classify this chemical (which can be petroleum or plant-based) as nontoxic, but research indicates it may be a skin, eye, and lung irritant.  It is also used in cosmetics, antifreeze, and processed foods.
  
  
• Tocopheryl Acetate - animal testing has found that this chemical compound, which consists of acetic acid and tocopherol (vitamin E), causes tumor formation at high doses.  There is strong evidence that it is a human-skin toxicant or allergen.