ABSTRACT
COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus, results in serious clinical manifestations in humans. The reactions, which are mainly respiratory, can also have significant effects on other body systems, such as cardiovascular, and can progress to death. Handwashing with running water and soap, and using alcohol-based antiseptic formulations are recognized measures in controlling COVID-19 spreading. Our study presents a review on hand hygiene and its relation with skin health in times of COVID-19. Handwashing with soap and running water promotes dirt removal and can inactivate SARS-CoV-2 by disrupting the viral lipid membrane. The use of alcohol-based antiseptic preparations on hands inactivates or inhibits the development of pathogenic microorganisms, such as the COVID-19 virus. World Health Organization recommends 80% ethyl alcohol-based or 75% isopropyl alcohol-based formulations for hand antisepsis, as they have a proven virucidal effect against SARS-CoV-2. Numerous problems can occur with frequent hand sanitizing regarding skin health. Skin dryness, increased skin sensitivity, and irritant contact dermatitis are some manifestations, which are mainly noticed in healthcare workers during COVID-19 pandemic. Accidents and burn risk involving alcohol-based antiseptic products are also a concern. From the pandemic beginning until November 2020, the Brazilian Burn Society has counted 700 hospitalizations due to serious burn accidents caused by 70% alcohol use, in liquid or gel form. For minimizing or avoiding dermatological reactions on hands, it is important to use antiseptic formulations and soaps containing moisturizing agents. The presence of humectants such as glycerin and emollients such as vegetable oils in the formulations can attract water and keep it in the skin, relieving hand skin irritation. So, humectants and emollients help maintaining the skin health in a proper hand hygiene routine. Even after most of world's population has been immunized with vaccines to prevent COVID-19, our hands will still have potential to transmit SARS-CoV-2 and it should not be overlooked. Understanding the state of the art of the antiseptic formulations and the impact of these products on hand skin health are critical to develop new knowledge on antiseptic products and their application in controlling infectious diseases spread, such as COVID-19.