Do Hand Sanitizers Dry Out Your Skin? Myths and Facts

Quick answer

Yes, hand sanitizers can dry out your skin, especially with frequent use. But you can prevent dryness by choosing a formula with moisturizing ingredients and applying a gentle lotion or oil right after the sanitizer dries. The key is to replace what the alcohol strips away.

Why alcohol-based sanitizers can leave hands dry

Most hand sanitizers rely on alcohol to kill germs, and alcohol is a solvent that evaporates quickly. As it evaporates, it can take some of your skin's natural oils with it. That's why repeated use, especially in cold or dry weather, may leave hands feeling tight, rough, or flaky.

The fix isn't to stop sanitizing when you need it. It's to add moisture back. Look for sanitizers that include emollients like glycerin or aloe, and keep a moisturizer within reach so you can apply it as soon as your hands feel dry.

Myth: All hand sanitizers dry out skin equally

Not true. Formulas vary widely. Some contain high concentrations of alcohol with little else, while others add skin-conditioning ingredients. If you're prone to dry hands, read the label and favor options that list moisturizers near the top of the ingredient list. Also, gels with a higher alcohol percentage may feel more drying than those with added emollients.

That said, no sanitizer is a substitute for handwashing when soap and water are available. But when you can't wash, a well-formulated sanitizer plus a follow-up moisturizer can keep your hands comfortable.

Myth: You should avoid moisturizer after sanitizer

Some people worry that lotion will recontaminate their hands or make them slippery. In reality, once the sanitizer has dried completely, applying a light lotion or oil is fine and can help prevent dryness. The sanitizer has already done its job; moisturizer just protects your skin barrier.

For a quick, non-greasy option, try a lotion that absorbs fast. If you prefer oils, a lightweight body oil can also work. Just wait a few seconds for the sanitizer to dry first.

Myths vs. facts: hand sanitizer and dry skin

• Myth: Hand sanitizer always dries out your skin.: Fact: It can, but the effect depends on the formula and how often you use it. Sanitizers with added moisturizers are less likely to cause dryness. Verdict: Partly true, but preventable.
• Myth: You shouldn't use moisturizer after sanitizer.: Fact: Once the sanitizer has dried, applying a lotion or oil is safe and helps maintain your skin barrier. Verdict: False. Moisturize after sanitizer dries.
• Myth: All hand sanitizers are the same.: Fact: Ingredients vary. Some contain skin-conditioning ingredients like glycerin or aloe, while others are mostly alcohol. Verdict: False. Read labels if you have dry skin.

Products that help keep hands comfortable

• Face + Body Lotion, Refresh: Honest’s gentle-for-baby Face + Body Lotion delivers up to 24 hours of blissful moisture and is dermatologist tested. A fast-absorbing lotion like this can be applied after sanitizer to replenish moisture without a greasy feel.
• Body Oil, Sensitive: Honest’s Body Oil, Sensitive is made with over 95% avocado, coconut, jojoba seed, and sunflower oils, and leaves skin feeling silky and nourished. If you prefer an oil-based moisturizer, this lightweight blend can soothe dry hands and is gentle enough for sensitive skin.