What is a finger alcohol?

A finger alcohol, also sometimes referred to as finger antiseptic or hand sanitizer, is an alcohol-based liquid, gel, or foam used to decrease infectious agents on the hands. Finger alcohols typically contain some combination of isopropyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, or n-propanol as the active ingredient.

What are the common ingredients in finger alcohols?

The most common active ingredients in finger alcohols are:

• Isopropyl alcohol (2-propanol) – This is the most common type of alcohol used in finger alcohols.
• Ethyl alcohol (ethanol) – Also a very common ingredient.
• n-Propanol – Less common than isopropyl alcohol and ethyl alcohol but still used.

These alcohols are effective germ killers when in concentrations between 60%-95% in finger alcohol products. Generally, the higher the alcohol concentration, the better its ability to inactivate germs.

In addition to alcohol, finger alcohols may contain:

• Water – To dilute the alcohol to a usable concentration.
• Emulsifiers/surfactants – To allow the alcohol to mix properly with water.
• Thickeners – To make the product a gel.
• Emollients – To keep the skin moisturized.
• Fragrance – For scent.

How do finger alcohols work to kill germs?

Finger alcohols work through the antimicrobial properties of alcohol. Specifically:

• Alcohol denatures and coagulates proteins – This disrupts the bacterial cell wall and leads to cell lysis.
• Alcohols dissolve lipids – This damages the lipids in the bacterial cell membrane, causing them to lose structural integrity.
• Alcohols are oxidizing agents – This can damage proteins and DNA inside bacterial cells.

The combination of these three mechanisms is what allows alcohols to rapidly kill or inactivate a wide range of pathogens including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This makes them highly effective for disinfecting hands.

When should you use a finger alcohol?

Finger alcohols are recommended for use in the following situations:

• When soap and water are not available – Finger alcohols allow for hand hygiene when sinks are not accessible.
• Before/after interacting with someone who is sick – To prevent spread of germs.
• Before/after visiting a healthcare facility – To reduce healthcare-associated infections.
• Before eating – To avoid ingesting germs picked up from surfaces.
• After using the bathroom – To cleanse hands of any germs.
• After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose – To prevent spreading respiratory illness.
• After touching frequently used items in public places – e.g. shopping carts, handrails.

Frequent use of finger alcohols is recommended for reducing overall infection transmission.

What is the proper technique for using finger alcohols?

To effectively use a finger alcohol:

1. Apply enough product to fully wet hands – Use about a dime sized amount.
2. Thoroughly rub hands together, covering all surfaces – Include back of hands, between fingers, under nails.
3. Continue rubbing until hands are dry – This takes around 20 seconds of rubbing.

Proper technique is key – just applying a small amount without thoroughly rubbing will not provide adequate disinfection. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for the recommended volume to use and rubbing time.

Are finger alcohols effective against COVID-19?

Yes, the CDC and WHO recommend alcohol-based hand sanitizers as an effective option against COVID-19 when soap and water are not available.

Finger alcohols containing at least 60% alcohol rapidly inactivate the outer lipid envelope of the COVID-19 virus, which destroys the viral particles and prevents transmission through hands.

Frequent use of finger alcohols is an important tool in reducing the spread of COVID-19 in addition to other protective measures like masks and social distancing.

What are the advantages of finger alcohols compared to hand washing?

Some key advantages of finger alcohols include:

• Convenience – Can disinfect hands anywhere, without needing a sink.
• Speed – Much faster to use than soap/water handwashing.
• Accessibility – Useful when soap and water are unavailable.
• Portability – Small, portable formats like mini bottles and wipes.
• Efffectiveness – Rapidly kills germs when used properly.

However, it should be noted handwashing with soap and water is still recommended whenever possible for best hand hygiene.

What are the disadvantages of finger alcohols?

Some potential downsides of finger alcohols include:

• Flammability – Alcohols are flammable and must be stored safely.
• Eye irritation – Can irritate and dry out eyes.
• Skin dryness – Frequent use can dry out skin.
• Allergies – Some people may be allergic to ingredients.
• Bacteria resistance – Overuse could promote bacteria resistance.
• No removal of grime – Does not physically remove dirt like handwashing.

Proper precautions should be taken, including avoiding contact with eyes, moisturizing after frequent use, and patch testing for allergies.

Are there any risks associated with ingesting finger alcohols?

Yes, finger alcohols can be dangerous if ingested, especially by children:

• Alcohols are toxic when swallowed.
• Ingestion can cause intoxication, respiratory distress, and low blood pressure.
• The FDA received over 70,000 cases of hand sanitizer ingestion between 2011-2016.
• In 2020 there was an increase in poison control calls for hand sanitizer ingestion, especially in young children.

To help avoid accidental ingestion:

• Store hand sanitizers safely out of reach of children and pets.
• Supervise children when using hand sanitizer.
• Consider lower alcohol content sanitizers for young kids.
• Choose sanitizers with a bittering agent to deter drinking.

If ingested, seek medical help immediately.

What are some tips for safe use of finger alcohols?

Tips for safely using finger alcohols include:

• Avoid contact with eyes, cuts, or open wounds – rinse thoroughly if this occurs.
• Allow hands to fully dry before touching flames or cigarettes.
• Store bottles safely away from heat sources.
• Check ingredient list and avoid if allergic to any ingredients.
• Apply lotion after frequent use to prevent dry, cracked skin.
• Opt for fragrance-free options if sensitive to scents.
• Select products with child-resistant packaging.
• Supervise children and teach them safe use.

Following the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use can help avoid any potential hazards with hand sanitizers.

Should finger alcohols be used on children?

Finger alcohols can be used on children but special precautions are recommended:

• Supervise children under age 6 when using hand sanitizer.
• Use kid-friendly options – lower alcohol, fun scents, child safety caps.
• Teach children proper techniques – rub thoroughly until dry.
• Store out of reach and sight of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Clean hands with soap/water if hands are visibly soiled.
• Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, cuts.

The CDC notes handwashing with soap and water is the best option for children under age 2. Over age 2, hand sanitizers can be used safely with supervision.

Conclusion

In summary, finger alcohols or hand sanitizers are an effective on-the-go option for hand hygiene when soap and water are unavailable. Using products with at least 60% alcohol and proper technique provides protection against a range of germs and viruses, including COVID-19. However, precautions should be taken to store and use finger alcohols safely, especially around children and fire sources. Handwashing with soap and water remains the gold standard practice for hand hygiene whenever possible. Finger alcohols serve as a convenient supplemental measure to help reduce infection transmission.