Alcohol-based hand sanitiser can be used when soap and water are not available. Hand sanitiser is effective for reducing germs on clean hands, making it useful when travelling, shopping or commuting. However, if hands are visibly dirty or greasy, washing with soap and water is recommended.
To perform effective hand hygiene:
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Apply soap or hand sanitiser.
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Rub palms together.
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Rub the backs of your hands.
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Clean between fingers.
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Rub fingertips and nails.
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Clean thumbs.
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Rub wrists.
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Rinse (if using soap) and dry thoroughly.
This process typically takes at least 20 seconds.
The WHO’s “5 moments for hand hygiene” approach is mainly used in healthcare settings and includes cleaning hands:
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Before touching a patient
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Before clean procedures
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After exposure to bodily fluids
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After touching a patient
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After touching the surroundings
These principles highlight the importance of cleaning hands at key times to prevent infection.
Frequent washing or sanitising may cause dryness. Using moisturising hand creams alongside hand hygiene products can help maintain healthy skin. You can explore complementary products in our Skin Care and Toiletries categories.
