The best and most recommended way to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria is to wash your hands. But, in instances where you might not be near a bathroom or just want extra protection, hand sanitizers are the next best thing (or best additional thing) — especially as we're all trying to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Product manufactured at a facility that did not respond to multiple FDA requests for records related to drug manufacturing and product quality; added manufacturer to import alert to help stop their products from entering the U.S. on 03/27/2023.

Product manufactured at a facility that did not respond to multiple FDA requests for records related to drug manufacturing and product quality even after receiving a warning letter. FDA issued a warning letter on 09/12/2023. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced recalls of several hand sanitizers due to the potential presence of methanol. Product manufactured at a facility that did not respond to multiple FDA requests for records related to drug manufacturing and product quality; added manufacturer to import alert to help stop their products from entering the U.S. on 09/15/2023.Product purported to be made at the same facility that produced an acetal contaminated product; Product manufactured at a facility that did not respond to multiple FDA requests for information related to drug manufacturing, product quality, and the scope of the contamination Product manufactured at a facility that did not respond to multiple FDA requests for records related to drug manufacturing and product quality; added manufacturer to import alert to help stop their products from entering the U.S. on 04/13/2023. Keep in mind that hand sanitizer is meant to kill germs, not erase visible dirt. "Sanitizers simply don't work as well when your hands are covered in dirt and grime. Soap and water is a better option," says Boston-based dermatopathologist Gretchen Frieling. Similarly, if you've touched harmful chemicals, like pesticides or heavy metals, opt for good ol' fashioned soap and water. Foshan Meixin Biotechnology Co., Ltd.; formerly, Meixin Beauty & Health Care Products Co., Ltd (China)

So, what kind of hand sanitizer should you use? "Alcohol-based sanitizers with 60 percent alcohol or higher are best at killing many types of germs," says Dr. Alexis. If your bottle contains any less than that, it may reduce growth of germs but not kill them. The CDC confirms a high alcohol content (also at least 60 percent) is required to kill germs. FDA tested product; contains unacceptable levels of methanol; FDA recommended the company recall on 3/22/2023; product voluntarily recalled on 3/27/2023. Scrub your hands. Use the amount of hand sanitizer recommended on the label, and rub it into both hands vigorously. Make sure to get all areas of the hands, including the wrists and under the nails, just as you do when washing. Rub until they air dry. While washing hands with soap and water for 20 seconds is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of coronavirus, using hand sanitizer is the next best thing, especially if you're out and about and don't have access to running water. According to the FDA, hand sanitizers meant for consumer use (as opposed to those used in hospitals) should contain ethyl alcohol (between 60-95% of the entire formula) or isopropyl alcohol (70-91%). Make sure the product you choose includes a Drug Fact label listing the active ingredients, and rub on the amount indicated on the bottle, then let hands air dry rather than wiping them off. Using hand sanitizers too frequently can also reduce the number of helpful bacteria on your hands and skin.

How to use the table below:

Product manufactured at a facility that did not respond to multiple FDA requests for records related to drug manufacturing and product quality; added manufacturer to import alert to help stop their products from entering the U.S. on 4/10/2023.

before and after treating clients if you’re a cosmetologist, beautician, tattoo artist, or aesthetician

FDA tested product; benzalkonium chloride level was subpotent. FDA has no evidence this product is in the U.S. market; added to import alert to help stop their products from entering the U.S. on 05/9/2023; FDA issued a warning letter on 08/07/2023. Burton M, et al. (2011). The effect of handwashing with water or soap on bacterial contamination of hands. DOI: