Handwashing is an effective way to prevent diseases, but in daily life, many people have misconceptions about it, which can reduce its effectiveness in preventing the spread of germs and may even negatively impact health.

Although frequent hand washing is an important part of hygienic habits, excessive or incorrect hand washing methods may be counterproductive.

The following are some common misunderstandings about hand washing. Hope everyone can pay attention to them and keep their hands clean and healthy in the right way.

First, not all hand sanitizers have bactericidal functions. Many people mistakenly believe that all hand sanitizers can effectively kill bacteria, but this is not the case. Antibacterial hand sanitizers do have a bactericidal function, as they are designed to meet specific requirements for killing certain germs.

These types of sanitizers are typically used in public places such as hospitals and hotels. On the other hand, the primary function of ordinary hand sanitizers is cleaning, and they do not have significant bactericidal effects.

For everyday life, regular hand sanitizers are adequate for basic hand cleaning needs. However, in high-risk environments, such as hospitals or when caring for ill individuals, using antibacterial hand sanitizers is more appropriate.

When selecting a hand sanitizer, it is important to choose the right product for the situation and not blindly pursue products that advertise strong bactericidal effects when they may not be necessary.

Second, many people use wet wipes or hand sanitizer in place of traditional soap and water, thinking that these alternatives can also achieve the purpose of cleaning and sterilization.

However, this belief is not as reliable as it seems. Although wet wipes are convenient, they do not provide the same level of sterilization as washing with soap and water. In addition, certain chemical components found in some wet wipes may cause adverse effects on the skin.

Ingredients such as propylene glycol or benzalkonium chloride, which are commonly found in some wet wipes, can pose health risks if they come into contact with food before hands are thoroughly cleaned.

Similarly, while hand sanitizer is a useful alternative when soap and clean water are unavailable, its sterilization effect is not as thorough as washing hands with running water and soap.

Therefore, when conditions allow, it is still best to wash hands with soap and running water to ensure a more complete and effective cleaning.

Third, many people are accustomed to washing their hands using a basin of water at home to save water. Unfortunately, this practice can reduce the effectiveness of hand washing.

Water in a basin can quickly become contaminated after repeated use, especially if multiple people share the same basin to wash their hands. In such cases, germs may spread in the water, significantly lowering the overall effectiveness of hand washing.

Washing hands with running water, on the other hand, ensures that germs are washed away and reduces the chance of re-contaminating the hands. Therefore, it is recommended to use clean, running water when washing hands, instead of relying on a basin of water, to achieve a higher level of cleanliness.

Another common misconception is that washing hands more frequently is always better. While washing hands is essential for preventing illness, washing them too often can damage the skin.

Excessive handwashing can strip the skin of its natural protective oils, leading to dryness or even cracking. This, in turn, can make the skin less effective as a barrier against germs, increasing the risk of infection.

This is particularly true in cold weather or dry environments, where the skin is more prone to drying out. After frequent hand washing, it is important to apply a moisturizing hand cream to keep the skin hydrated and healthy.

The appropriate frequency for hand washing should be based on actual needs, such as washing hands before meals, after using the restroom, after handling garbage, or after caring for someone who is ill. Avoiding excessive washing can help maintain the health of the skin.

Although hand washing may seem like a simple task, there are many details to consider to ensure it is done correctly. The key to effective hand hygiene is not just frequency, but adopting the proper techniques and using the right products for each situation. Maintaining clean hands without causing unnecessary harm to the skin is essential for overall health and well-being.