If you’re like me, you’ve come across countless hand sanitizers that promise to kill 99.9% of germs. But as we learn more about bacteria, it’s clear many of these products could be doing more harm than good. Let’s break down why and how you can make better choices for your family this cold and flu season.
The Problem with Conventional Hand Sanitizers
Many hand sanitizers get rid of germs, but not all bacteria are bad. In fact, some bacteria are essential for a healthy immune system. Over-sanitizing with products containing harmful ingredients can strip your skin of these good bacteria, leaving you more vulnerable to illness.
Ingredients to Look Out For
Triclosan and Benzalkonium Chloride
These chemicals are often found in antibacterial hand sanitizers and are linked to hormone disruption and antibiotic resistance.
Synthetic Fragrances
Look for terms like “fragrance” or “parfum” on the label. These can hide dozens of chemicals, including phthalates, which may cause skin irritation and disrupt hormones.
Propylene Glycol (PG) and Parabens
Common in many personal care products, these preservatives have been linked to respiratory issues and immune suppression. PGs are synthetic compounds that are also found in antifreeze. Parabens often show up as methylparaben or propylparaben.
Ureas (Diazolidinyl Urea, Imidazolidinyl Urea)
These preservatives can release formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, and cause skin sensitivity. (Brands that contain this are Purell Advanced, Dove, and Germ-X.)
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES):
These surfactants can irritate the skin and have been linked to hormone disruption.
Artificial Colors (Red 33 & 40, Yellow 5 & 6, Blue 1 & 2):
Made from coal tar and other harmful chemicals. Do you know those cute colored hand sanitizers from Bath & Body Works, like Red Candy Apple? Yeah, they’re basically little bottles of ADHD and carcinogen cocktails disguised as holiday cheer. Sure, your hands might smell like a candy cane, but at what cost?
Do Hand Sanitizers Work?
Yes, but only if they meet specific criteria. According to the CDC:
Go Alcohol-Based
Sanitizers should have at least 60% alcohol to be effective.
Avoid Non-Alcohol-Based Options
These are less effective and can promote bacterial resistance.
Prefer Soap and Water
Washing your hands for 20 seconds with a low-tox soap is still the best way to clean them.
What Happens When We Over-Sanitize?
Overusing hand sanitizers, especially those with antibacterial chemicals, can:
Weaken Your Immune System
Making you more vulnerable to illnesses like norovirus.
Promote Superbugs
Encouraging bacteria to become resistant and harder to kill.
Increase Chemical Absorption
Alcohol-based sanitizers can make your skin more permeable, allowing harmful chemicals like parabens or BPA from receipts to enter your body.
Pro Tip: Always wash your hands after touching receipts—they often contain dangerously high levels of BPA/BPS that can absorb through your skin! (Good news: Target and CVS have removed bisphenols from their receipt paper.)
My Favorite Low-Tox Hand Sanitizers
Here are a few hand sanitizers I use and trust for my family:
Dr. Bronner's Organic Hand Sanitizer
Made with organic ingredients and no synthetic fragrances.
EO Hand Sanitizer Spray – Lavender
Gentle, with plant-based alcohol and soothing essential oils.
Thieves Hand Sanitizer by Young Living
Essential oil-based and contains 65% alcohol for effective germ-killing.
Join My Clean Living Community!
Looking to spend more time detoxing your home and swapping out those mystery-ingredient products for safer options? Come hang out in Feather & Nest’s Private Facebook Group!
I’ll be sharing practical tips, game-changing product recommendations, and plenty of education and encouragement as we navigate this journey together. Bonus? You’ll be in great company with others who are also figuring out how to make their homes healthier—one less-toxic swap at a time.
Sources
Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. The information shared in my posts is based on thorough research, scientific studies, and a passion for providing accurate and helpful insights to support healthier living. My goal is to empower you to make informed, toxin-free choices by understanding the ingredients in everyday products. Please consult with a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your health or wellness routine. Be sure to read my other blogs for more tips, and feel free to share the knowledge you gain. As the owner of a cleaning and organizing business, I also include helpful organizing tips along the way!
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