Proper hand hygiene: Our best tips

Proper hand hygiene: Our best tips

Hand hygiene is crucial—even on the go. In addition to the conventional practice of handwashing, the introduction of hand sanitizer has revolutionized our approach to cleanliness, making us increasingly aware of its importance over time.

In this article, we delve into the importance of hand hygiene and how to best practice it. We specifically zoom in on the essential role of hand sanitizer in this context and how to keep our hands clean and fresh without harming their natural processes and barrier. Keep reading to gain insights into the role your hand care can play in your overall health.

Our daily encounters with bacteria

Every day, we unknowingly expose ourselves to numerous types of bacteria originating from our surroundings. Door handles, keyboards, cash, touchscreens, and public transportation are just some of the places where microorganisms thrive. This constant exposure increases our risk of transferring and receiving disease-causing bacteria, which can impact our general health. Just think about how much you use your hands every day and the various surfaces they come into contact with. These various types of bacteria can then be transferred from our hands to the face, where the mouth and nose, in particular, provide a direct entry point for infections such as colds and influenza. It's not pleasant to think about, but it's an important realization to prevent these potential risks. Fortunately, there are several ways to do this.

Regular handwashing is key

Daily handwashing is a crucial practice to reduce the risk of bacterial transfer and to maintain good hygiene. By washing our hands regularly, we not only remove visible dirt but also a significant number of microorganisms, including disease-causing bacteria and viruses that may reside on our hands. 

To achieve maximum effectiveness, it is also essential to wash your hands correctly. This includes always using soap, which should be rubbed into the hands for at least 20 seconds for optimal effect. However, because it is necessary to wash hands multiple times a day, it is important to choose the right cleansing agents to protect the skin as much as possible and prevent dryness and issues like eczema. Harsh sulfates, in particular, can contribute to dryness, leaving the skin with a tight sensation that can later develop into sores, cracks, and other types of irritation.

We have formulated our Aromatique Hydra Hand Wash with natural and gentle cleansing agents that effectively clean the skin without disrupting its natural moisture balance and oils, allowing you to keep your hands clean and fresh without worrying about uncomfortable reactions, as the formula is enriched with a high content of antioxidants, enzymes, and vitamins that help prevent moisture loss.

Hand sanitizer: A quick and convenient way to clean hands on the go

To many, hand sanitizer plays a crucial role in preventing negative effects from surrounding bacteria. Today, we are often on the go, whether commuting to and from work, visiting friends, or simply taking a quick trip to town. Often, easy access to a handwashing facility is not available, and this is where hand sanitizers come into play. With this product, you can easily disinfect your hands anywhere, anytime—even when in a rush.

The effectiveness of hand sanitizer comes from its alcohol content. Alcohol works by penetrating bacterial and viral cells, destabilizing the cell membrane, and denaturing proteins. This process leads to the destruction of the microorganism's structure, preventing its ability to survive and reproduce.

Hand sanitizer is, therefore, a highly effective tool against a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses. To achieve optimal effectiveness, it is important to use a sufficient amount to cover all surfaces (for woods_ hand sanitizer, around 3 ml), and rub the hands together for at least 20 seconds until they feel dry to ensure complete coverage. Additionally, it is crucial to apply hand sanitizer when your hands are dry.

At woods_, you can find two different types of hand sanitizer: Our Nourishing Sanitizer Spray formulated with 85% disinfecting alcohol, and Nourishing Sanitizer Gel containing 70% disinfecting alcohol. Both formulations are enriched with glycerin—a moisturizing agent that retains moisture in the skin to keep it soft and smooth. Therefore, you don't have to worry about dry hands on the go with these products.

Together with handwashing, regular use of hand sanitizer constitutes a crucial part of the defense against disease-causing microorganisms, making it an indispensable practice to maintain a healthy lifestyle while reducing the risk of infections.