Is Surgical Spirit a Suitable Skin Disinfectant in Times of Pandemic?

With the ongoing global challenge posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for effective disinfectants, specifically for hand sanitization, has surged like never before. Many wonder about the suitability of surgical spirit as a skin disinfectant. In this article, we will explore the efficacy and safety of using surgical spirit for sanitization.

Understanding Surgical Spirit and Its Effectiveness

In common vernacular, 'spirit' often refers to surgical spirit or isopropyl alcohol, a commonly used antiseptic agent in medical settings. While surgical spirit does an excellent job at sanitizing hands, its frequent use can have adverse effects on the skin.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), regular hand washing with soap and water or the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers containing at least 60% alcohol is effective in preventing the spread of the virus. However, repeated use of surgical spirit can lead to significant skin dehydration, peeling, and irritation. This makes it unsuitable for regular and prolonged use as a substitute for hand sanitizers.

The Emergence of Hand Sanitizers in Modern Times

The global pandemic has made hand sanitizers an indispensable part of our lives. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), if soap and water are not readily available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol should be used. While the market is flooded with many brands, it's important to understand the ingredients to ensure effectiveness and safety.

Ingredients of Homemade Hand Sanitizers

The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests a homemade hand sanitizer recipe that includes:

99.8% isopropyl alcohol or 96% ethanol 2% hydrogen peroxide Glycerin/glycerol Sterile distilled or boiled cold water Disposable plastic bottles

This recipe leverages isopropyl alcohol, a highly effective aldehyde that can quickly and effectively kill most pathogens, including the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). This formula is not only efficient but also safer on the skin than using surgical spirit alone.

Finding a Balance: Safety and Effectiveness

The widespread adoption of hand sanitizers has led to a significant increase in the availability of alcohol-based products. However, it's crucial to recognize the potential risks associated with overuse, particularly for surgical spirit. Frequent and prolonged use of surgical spirit can cause severe skin dryness and irritation, which can compromise the skin barrier and increase the risk of infections.

While the research on the long-term effects of using surgical spirit as a skin disinfectant is limited, the consensus among health experts is that it should be used sparingly and only as a temporary measure during times of limited availability of proper hand sanitizers.

The Future of Hand Hygiene

As countries start lifting lockdowns and people return to public spaces, the importance of hand hygiene cannot be overstated. With the new normal of regular sanitization, it's essential to adopt safe and effective practices that minimize risks to the skin.

The use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers with a proper formula, such as the WHO-recommended blend, is crucial. These products provide a lasting effect and are gentler on the skin, reducing the risk of dehydration and irritation. With the rapid evolution of the pandemic, it's also important to stay informed about the latest updates and guidelines regarding hand hygiene.

Hope this helps in understanding the nuances of using surgical spirit and other effective skin disinfectants in the context of the global pandemic. For more information and updates, stay tuned to the latest health advisories.