Partly True: Using hand sanitizer for 50 to 60 days increases the chances of getting cancer and skin diseases.

By: Varun Kumar
June 15 2020

Share Article:

Excessive use of hand sanitizer can lead to dryness and itching, but there is no evidence of it causing cancer.Studies show that frequent use of hand sanitizer, instead of soap and water, may lead to fewer respiratory infections and illnesses, especially in children. It can also dry out the hands, leading to itchiness, cracks, and dermatitis. To avoid that, one can use petroleum jelly or lotion after washing or sanitizing their hands. However, there is no scientific evidence indicating that the usage of hand sanitizers could cause any type of cancer. The Food and Drug Administration recommends the public to use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol to prevent the spread of respiratory and diarrheal infections from one person to person. Also, it has recommended that the companies making hand sanitizers need to provide proof that those chemicals are safe for that level of exposure. The COVID-19 pandemic has given rise to a lot of potentially dangerous misinformation. For reliable advice on COVID-19 including symptoms, prevention and available treatment, please refer to the World Health Organisation or your national healthcare authority.