Practicing proper hand washing techniques is a proven way to minimize contact with potentially harmful bacteria. By cleaning your hands regularly, you reduce the likelihood of introducing such contaminants to your face, which could otherwise cause you to become sick. From a health care perspective, it’s one of the most beneficial steps you can take. Here’s how to make sure you’re doing it right.

Do:

Wet your hands first.

If you don’t wet your hands first, the soap won’t produce a sufficient enough lather to thoroughly cleanse the skin. However, it’s not enough to use water on its own.

Soap surfactants are designed to remove grime, microbes, and contaminants from the skin. Washing with only water won’t produce a deep clean and is unlikely to eliminate those germs.

Wash for 20 seconds.

Many health care professionals recommend washing your hand for 20 seconds. This gives the soap enough time to produce its lather and effectively eliminate the germs on your skin.

Scientifically, the lather contains the surfactant molecules, which feature pin-style points on each side. One side interacts only with water, while the other repels water and attracts the contaminants on your hands. As you rinse, those surfactants effectively send the pollutants down the drain.

Don’t:

Only wash them after using the bathroom.

It’s easy enough to remember to wash your hands after using the bathroom or before eating a meal. However, it’s equally important to do so after taking out the trash, putting food out for a pet, cleaning a wound, or blowing your nose. Making a habit out of washing your hands after these tasks benefits your personal health care needs by quickly eliminating the germs before they spread elsewhere.

Rely only on sanitizer.

Hand sanitizer is useful, but it shouldn’t be used in place of washing with soap. Think of it as a gap filler that comes in handy when you can’t easily access soap and water. Apply a formula with at least 60% alcohol to your hands, then rub thoroughly, making sure not to miss your fingers.

For reliable health care professionals in the northern panhandle of Texas, turn to Dumas Family Practice. These primary care doctors are committed to your health and well-being, whether you need preventative care, are treating a chronic illness, or need to schedule a school physical for a child. Visit their website for more information, or call (806) 935-9005 to schedule an appointment.