Hand Washing 101

Hand Washing 101: the most effective defence against germs

Researchers in the US revealed that just 5% of people wash their hands long enough to destroy infectious germs after using the bathroom. They also discovered that 10% skipped washing their hands altogether, while 33% used no soap at all. And, get ready for this, the study revealed that men are less inclined to wash their hands after going to the toilet than women.

Germs and viruses, such as the flu virus, can transfer to your hands by touching smooth surfaces such as doorknobs, handles, television remotes, computer keyboards, and telephones. Then when you touch your hands to your nose, eyes, or mouth, the flu virus gets absorbed. According to experts, the single most important thing we can do to keep from getting sick and spreading illness to others is to wash our hands. But microbiologists say that few people do this right.

With the approach of cold and flu season there is no better time to brush up on your hand washing skills.

Hand Washing 101:

Wash for 20 to 30 seconds

Lather well, using plenty of soap

Use a soap that contains triclosan, antibacterial and antifungal agent, that kills microorganisms or inhibits their growth

Use a lot of friction, which gets rid of the dead skin and dirt that harbours germs

Rinse thoroughly and dry your hands well

Cetaphil's Gentle Cleansing Antibacterial Bar is a mild, non-soap cleansing bar formulated to provide both gentle skin cleansing and antibacterial benefits. Antibacterial Bar contains 0.3% of triclosan which stays on the skin after washing and provides an additional layer of hygienic protection. The active ingredients in the Antibacterial Bar are not only bactericidal but also bacteriostatic, which means they can inhibit the growth or reproduction of bacteria.

Cetaphil's Antibacterial Bar is ideal for daily face and full body cleansing in the bath or shower. It is non-comedogenic so it won't block pores. Cetaphil Antibacterial Bar is suitable for dry and sensitive skin, and for kids and retails for $9.10.

Cetaphil® products are available from pharmacies nationally and Priceline stores. For further information please phone 1800 800 765 in Australia and 0800 174 104 in New Zealand. View the full Cetaphil product range on www.cetaphil.com.au.