Can witch hazel be used as a hand sanitizer? This question has been on the minds of many people, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when hand sanitizers became a necessity. Witch hazel, a natural astringent derived from the bark and leaves of Hamamelis virginiana, has been used for centuries in various skincare products. But can it effectively replace the commercial hand sanitizers we are accustomed to? Let’s delve into the details and find out.
Witch hazel is known for its antiseptic properties, which make it a popular ingredient in natural skincare products. It contains tannins, which have astringent properties that help to tighten and tone the skin. This natural astringent can help to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation, making it a potential candidate for use as a hand sanitizer.
However, it is important to note that witch hazel alone may not be as effective as commercial hand sanitizers, which typically contain at least 60% alcohol. Alcohol is a key ingredient in hand sanitizers because it can quickly kill a wide range of germs, including bacteria and viruses. While witch hazel can help to kill some bacteria, it may not be as effective against viruses like the one that causes COVID-19.
Despite its limitations, witch hazel can still be a useful addition to your hand hygiene routine. Here are a few ways you can incorporate witch hazel into your hand sanitizing routine:
1. Mix with Alcohol: You can create a homemade hand sanitizer by mixing witch hazel with alcohol. A simple recipe would be to mix two parts witch hazel with one part alcohol. This mixture can then be used as a hand sanitizer, although it may not be as effective as commercial products.
2. Use as a Toner: Witch hazel can be used as a toner after washing your hands. Simply apply a few drops to a cotton ball and swipe it over your hands. This can help to remove any remaining dirt or oil and provide a layer of protection against bacteria.
3. Combine with Essential Oils: Adding essential oils to witch hazel can enhance its antiseptic properties. Oils like tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, and lavender oil are known for their antibacterial and antiviral properties. Simply add a few drops of these oils to your witch hazel solution for added protection.
While witch hazel can be a useful addition to your hand hygiene routine, it is important to remember that it should not be used as a substitute for commercial hand sanitizers, especially during a pandemic. Commercial hand sanitizers are designed to kill a wide range of germs, including viruses, and are proven to be effective in preventing the spread of infections.
In conclusion, while witch hazel can be used as a hand sanitizer, its effectiveness may be limited compared to commercial products. It is best used as a complementary product to enhance your hand hygiene routine, but not as a replacement for the proven antiseptic properties of alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Always prioritize the use of commercial hand sanitizers, especially in public settings, to ensure the best protection against germs and viruses.
