Hand Sanitizer vs Soap

Nowadays we have been rubbing our palms, with a sanitizer, or washing them with soap and water more than ever. One thing that people are often curious about is which is more effective, the soap or the sanitizer. Let us explore the same in this article by understanding the specifics of each.

The Hand Sanitizer

Sanitizers with more than 60% alcohol can instantly disinfect the skin provided it is rubbed until dried. A highly concentrated solution of sanitizer when poured onto Coronavirus disables the hydrophobic effect, which enables the lipids to hold together, and gives the molecules room to move around. This is more like a crushing effect and happens in a matter of 2-5 seconds.

The Soap

A single drop of any kind of soap contains quadrillions of molecules called amphiphiles. These amphiphiles resemble lipids that form the shell of the virus. When soap comes in contact with the virus, the tails of amphiphiles compete with lipids for space, and, as a result, the outermost layer of the virus breaks. The amphiphiles then form a layer around particles of the virus, and these layered particles can be simply washed away with water.

Hand Sanitizer vs Soap

Scientists recommend washing hands with soap and water whenever possible as it also removes the dirt particles that could otherwise hide the virus. Also, it is highly convenient to cover your hands in soap and water. Of course, sanitizers are more convenient to use on the go, and, therefore, should be used when one doesn\’t have access to the sink. Sanitizers, however, are ineffective if too little is used or wiped off before drying up. Either of the two is effective in killing the novel Coronavirus, but I would recommend that you wash your hands if you have access to the sink.