With the Covid 19 pandemic, hydroalcoholic gel is widely acclaimed to avoid contamination. However, excessive use can have repercussions – Dr Yasine Beeharry – dermatologist. Their accessibility means that unfortunately too much is used. Too much.
More and more Mauritians are consulting for hand irritations. It is not Dr Yasine Beeharry who will tell us the opposite: “Lately, patients often come to me with irritations in their hands. The culprit is often excessive use of hydroalcoholic gel. Finally, especially the alcohol content of some of these products. »
Indeed, to be effective, but without danger for the skin, a hydroalcoholic gel must have an alcohol content which varies between 60% to 80%. However, according to the dermatologist, there are on the market gels containing 90% alcohol: “This is where the shoe pinches. This high alcohol content will dry out the skin and cause redness. In the long run, it will be itchy. At this stage, it is imperative to seek medical advice in order to benefit from an appropriate treatment, ”explains the doctor.
The alternative, according to Dr Beeharry, is to favor regular hand washing or to better choose your gels: “The best solution is to wash your hands regularly, especially for people with atopic-prone skin. But, as this is not always possible, it is necessary in this case, to choose gels with aloe vera or rich in vitamin E. These two components will attenuate the effect of alcohol. Also consider using a moisturizer for your hands, ”advises Dr. Beeharry.
