Hand hygiene. What lives on our hands?
Did you know that, on average, there are more than 3,000 different species of bacteria on our hands, and that we pass seven times more bacteria through shaking hands than through sneezing? When the COVID-19 outbreak broke out, we started paying even more attention to hand hygiene, washing and disinfecting our hands much more frequently and thoroughly than before.
Both good and dangerous pathogenic micro-organisms live on our hands. What are the most common of those dangerous to us found on them? Rotaviruses, salmonella, E.Coli, hepatitis A viruses, influenza viruses, staphylococcus and even pinworm eggs. Therefore, in order to rid the hands of viruses and bacteria, it is necessary not only to use the right preparation and washing technique, but also to spend enough time doing so. Studies have shown that if we wash our hands for 15 seconds, we get rid of most bacteria. If we prolong this time and wash for 30 seconds, we remove more than 99% of them.
To effectively wash your hands, it is a good idea to use a soap with antibacterial properties. When choosing such a cosmetic, pay attention not only to what antibacterial ingredient it contains, but also whether it will take care of the delicate skin on your hands. In our soap you will find tea oil concentrate, which is responsible for its antibacterial properties, as well as Hydromanil™, rice oil and calendula extract, which care for the skin.
Do you know... what items you touch every day have the most bacteria on them? These include your phone, money, washing up sponge, toilet seat, shopping basket handle or computer keyboard.
How often should you wash your hands? Up to a dozen times a day. You should certainly do it after using the toilet, before preparing food and eating, when returning home, after contact with a sick person, after contact with animals and whenever you think it is necessary.