Information

The CDC recommends “consumers use hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol when soap and water are unavailable” (1). It has been demonstrated that 60% alcohol formulations kill bacteria and viruses when used properly. The CDC and FDA recommend approximately 15 seconds of rubbing with alcohol-based sanitizer; the mechanical action of rubbing plus the killing power of the 60% alcohol are effective in reducing the chance of infection with bacteria and viruses.

In 2010, the World Health Organization published formulas for making alcohol-based handrubs using readily available materials commonly found in most countries in Guide to Local Production: WHO-recommended Handrub Formulations (2).  Recently these handrubs have been widely mass-produced to support public health efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19. They contain alcohol, water, glycerin, and hydrogen peroxide. 
In March 2020, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a Guidance Document to Industry for the production of alcohol-based handsanitizer (3). This document affirms the prior recommendation of 60% minimum alcohol content, and provides storage, handling and registration requirements, as well as safe promotion to the public, but does not provide a specific formulation. Many commercial manufacturers now follow these guidelines to make their own unique and FDA compliant handsanitizers.
Why a gel? A gel “holds” the alcohol suspended, allowing for greater contact time with the skin than a water- and glycerin-based alcohol solution such as the WHO handrub. The CDC and FDA recommend approximately 15 seconds of rubbing with alcohol-based sanitizer, which is much easier to do with a gel. The mechanical action of rubbing plus the killing power of the alcohol are effective against bacteria and viruses when used properly.

Our silky smooth plant-based gel is made of recycled plant material; it naturally imparts moisture and is non-drying.  This gel base has been used safely in the pharmaceutical and food industries for over 4 decades, and is non-allergenic. Our plant-based gel does not contain petrochemicals. Other commercial handsanitizer gels are made with triethanalomine, which is derived from two potentially toxic chemicals, ethylene oxide and ammonia, or from petrochemicals, which are not environmentally friendly.

Higher alcohol produces skin drying and cracking from prolonged use, exacerbated in winter months. Hand-sanitizers in the 60-70% alcohol range are proven to be effective and when used properly, provide a safe alternative to soap and water.

Apply a generous amount of handsanitizer gel and rub over all surfaces of the hand including between the fingers, for 15 seconds until dry. Re-apply as often as needed.