Efficacy and Toxicity of Hand Sanitizers

Abstract

Since the outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (CoVID-19), the World Health Organization has suggested that alcohol-based hand sanitizers should be used in the absence of soap and water to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV2. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and toxicity of hand sanitizers produced and/or distributed on the Lebanese market. The study included 31 different brands of hand sanitizers that were analyzed using headspace gas chromatography- mass spectrometry to detect impurities and alcohol content. The impurities were identified based on a Mass Spectrometry database. Regression analysis was used to determine ethanol percentage. Accordingly, a toxicological review was conducted to assess the various risks associated with the usage of hand sanitizers. Detected impurities mainly included but not limited to ethyl acetate, benzene, acetone, and acetal. Among the ethanol-containing hand sanitizers, 71% contained less than 60% v/v alcohol not complying with the CDC and WHO recommendations which state that ethanol concentration should be at least 60%. Isobutanol and other non-recommended alcohols (methanol and 1-propanol) were also detected as contaminations. Consumers should be aware that some hand sanitizers available on the Lebanese market are ineffective and include residues of harmful substances.