What should you do after using hand sanitizer?

Using hand sanitizer is an effective way to reduce the number of germs on your hands, especially when soap and water are not available. However, the best practice after using hand sanitizer is to wash your hands with soap and water as soon as possible. This is because while hand sanitizers can kill many types of germs, they may not remove all types of germs or the dirt and grime that can be present on the skin. Soap and water are more effective at physically removing contaminants and ensure that any remaining pathogens are eliminated.

Washing hands with soap and water allows for a thorough cleansing, including at areas that may be missed by hand sanitizer. This gives an additional layer of protection against potential infections or illnesses, making it the recommended step after sanitizer use.

Frequent use of hand sanitizer may lead to skin irritation over time, and while allowing it to air dry is necessary for it to take effect, letting it dry indefinitely is not practical or effective in maintaining hand hygiene. Wiping off the sanitizer with a towel can also counteract its effectiveness by removing the disinfectant before it has had time to work. Thus, washing hands with soap and water after initial sanitizer use is the most comprehensive and health-conscious practice.