Update: I have recently learned of a natural replacement – colloidal silver (there are many other health benefits, and I will post about that later) for the Isopropyl alcohol in hand sanitizer. I don’t know about you, but I use my hand sanitizer multiple times a day when I’m out of the house. Having a dab of isopropyl alcohol on your skin, when getting a shot or blood drawn every once in a while is one thing, but on the skin daily/ multiple times a day, IS toxic to our bodies.

Isopropyl alcohol is a potent depressant of the central nervous system. It is metabolized to acetone, which can contribute to and prolong CNS depression. CNS depression happens when the body’s normal neurological functions slow down.

Colloidal Silver is best as bio-active silver. Bio-Active means that positively charged ions and nano particles are more energetic and active, making them more effective for their purpose. Most colloidal silver products have lower ratios of positively charged particles and are therefore less effective. That said, it would still be better than isopropyl alcohol.

Best DIY Hand Sanitizer

Washing hands is the number one avenue for deterring viruses and other illnesses, but when out and about, this is a wonderful substitute!

I also make this mixture and soak either store bought wipes in it, then put the wipes back in the package it came in, or soak wash clothes in the mixture and store in a ziplock bag. Keep it in your car, purse, desk drawer or wherever you like. I do add 1 C. of water when using it this way.

_____________________________________________________________________________

To date: The CDC recommends washing hands with soap and water whenever possible because hand washing reduces the amounts of all types of germs and chemicals on hands. But if soap and water are not available, using a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can help you avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others.

Most store bought hand sanitizers have the following ingredients:

Ethyl alcohol has an excellent bactericidal and fungicidal activity of all agents used in hand disinfection, but it does cause oxidative metabolism (damage to our cells). It also is associated with skin irritation and/or contact dermatitis.

Isopropyl alcohol (a propane derivative) in small amounts on the skin, is “generally” not dangerous, but repeated skin exposure can cause itching, redness, rash, drying, and cracking. Prolonged skin contact can cause corrosion.

Glycerin can add moisture to the skin and according to the FDA, is categorized as generally safe.

Carbomer are a series of polymers primarily made from acrylic acid used to gel a substance.  It has been shown to cause cancer in animals when ingested. Its toxicity in topical applications is unknown.

Fragrance indicates the presence of up to four thousand separate ingredients, many toxic or carcinogenic. Clinical observation proves fragrances can affect the central nervous system, causing depression, hyperactivity, and irritability.

Aminomethyl propanol is typically used to establish and hold the pH. It is considered safe when 2% or less in a product.

Propylene glycol is a humectant (hydrating), also used to keep products from freezing or melting, and helps active ingredients penetrate the skin.

Isopropyl myristate is a synthetic oil composed of Isopropyl Alcohol and Myristic Acid (a naturally-occurring fatty acid). In general it is considered a safe ingredient at recommended concentrations less than 5%.

Tocopheryl acetate is a specific type of vitamin E, in a class of organic chemical compounds known as tocopherols. These compounds are considered fat-soluble antioxidants and is generally considered safe for skin.

Most schools and public places have hand sanitizers with isopropyl alcohol available, and some expect you to use them. This is unfortunate because of the toxins they contain.

Do dry your hands before applying any hand sanitizer. A 2019 study published in the American Society for Microbiology’s publication, found that wet mucus protected the influenza A virus, rendering hand sanitizer less effective.