As the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, hand sanitizers have become an essential tool in our daily lives. One of the most popular and affordable hand sanitizer brands is Equate, which is widely available in stores and online. However, many users have complained about the unpleasant smell of Equate hand sanitizer. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind the stinky smell of Equate hand sanitizer and explore possible solutions.
What Causes The Unpleasant Smell Of Equate Hand Sanitizer?
To understand why Equate hand sanitizer stinks, we need to look at its ingredients. Hand sanitizers typically contain a combination of active and inactive ingredients. The active ingredients are responsible for killing germs and bacteria, while the inactive ingredients help to stabilize the formula and provide a pleasant texture and smell.
Equate hand sanitizer contains 70% ethanol as its active ingredient, which is a common ingredient in many hand sanitizers. However, ethanol can have a strong, pungent smell that many people find unpleasant. In addition to ethanol, Equate hand sanitizer also contains other ingredients like water, glycerin, and fragrance.
The Role Of Ethanol In Hand Sanitizer
Ethanol is a common ingredient in hand sanitizers because it is effective against a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. However, ethanol can also have some drawbacks. For example, it can dry out the skin and cause irritation, especially in people with sensitive skin.
In terms of smell, ethanol can have a strong, pungent odor that many people find unpleasant. This is because ethanol is a volatile compound that can evaporate quickly, releasing a strong smell into the air. When you apply Equate hand sanitizer to your hands, the ethanol can evaporate quickly, releasing a strong smell that can linger for several minutes.
Other Ingredients that Contribute to the Smell
While ethanol is the main culprit behind the smell of Equate hand sanitizer, other ingredients can also contribute to the unpleasant odor. For example, some hand sanitizers contain fragrances or dyes that can give off a strong smell. In the case of Equate hand sanitizer, the fragrance is likely to be a synthetic fragrance that is designed to mask the smell of the ethanol.
However, some people may be sensitive to certain fragrances or dyes, which can cause an allergic reaction or skin irritation. In addition, some fragrances can be overpowering and unpleasant, which can contribute to the overall smell of the hand sanitizer.
Why Does Equate Hand Sanitizer Smell Worse Than Other Brands?
If you’ve tried other hand sanitizer brands, you may have noticed that they don’t smell as bad as Equate. There are several reasons why Equate hand sanitizer may smell worse than other brands.
Difference In Ingredients
One reason why Equate hand sanitizer may smell worse than other brands is the difference in ingredients. While many hand sanitizers contain ethanol as the active ingredient, some brands may use other ingredients like isopropanol or benzalkonium chloride. These ingredients can be less irritating to the skin and may have a milder smell than ethanol.
In addition, some hand sanitizer brands may use natural ingredients like essential oils or plant extracts, which can give off a more pleasant smell. For example, some hand sanitizers may contain tea tree oil or lavender oil, which can have a calming and soothing effect on the skin.
Difference in Concentration
Another reason why Equate hand sanitizer may smell worse than other brands is the difference in concentration. Equate hand sanitizer contains 70% ethanol, which is a relatively high concentration. Some hand sanitizer brands may contain a lower concentration of ethanol, which can be less irritating to the skin and may have a milder smell.
What Can You Do To Reduce The Smell Of Equate Hand Sanitizer?
If you’re concerned about the smell of Equate hand sanitizer, there are several things you can do to reduce the odor.
Use A Small Amount
One way to reduce the smell of Equate hand sanitizer is to use a small amount. Instead of applying a large amount of hand sanitizer to your hands, try using a small amount and rubbing it in thoroughly. This can help to reduce the amount of ethanol that evaporates into the air, which can minimize the smell.
Apply Hand Sanitizer to Damp Skin
Another way to reduce the smell of Equate hand sanitizer is to apply it to damp skin. When you apply hand sanitizer to dry skin, the ethanol can evaporate quickly, releasing a strong smell into the air. However, when you apply hand sanitizer to damp skin, the ethanol can be absorbed more slowly, which can minimize the smell.
Alternatives To Equate Hand Sanitizer
If you’re really concerned about the smell of Equate hand sanitizer, you may want to consider alternative brands. There are many hand sanitizer brands available that use natural ingredients and have a milder smell.
Natural Hand Sanitizer Brands
Some natural hand sanitizer brands that you may want to consider include:
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- Burt’s Bees Hand Sanitizer: This hand sanitizer contains natural ingredients like tea tree oil and lavender oil, which can help to soothe and calm the skin.
- The Honest Company Hand Sanitizer: This hand sanitizer contains natural ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile, which can help to moisturize and soothe the skin.
Hand Sanitizer Brands with a Milder Smell
If you’re looking for a hand sanitizer brand with a milder smell, you may want to consider the following brands:
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- Purell Hand Sanitizer: This hand sanitizer contains a mild fragrance that is designed to be gentle on the skin.
- Clorox Hand Sanitizer: This hand sanitizer contains a mild fragrance that is designed to be gentle on the skin.
In conclusion, the smell of Equate hand sanitizer is a common complaint among users. However, by understanding the ingredients and concentration of the hand sanitizer, you can take steps to reduce the odor. Additionally, there are many alternative hand sanitizer brands available that use natural ingredients and have a milder smell.
What Is The Main Reason Why Equate Hand Sanitizer Smells Unpleasant?
The main reason why Equate hand sanitizer smells unpleasant is due to its high concentration of ethanol. Ethanol is a common active ingredient in many hand sanitizers, including Equate, and it can give off a strong, pungent smell. This smell can be overwhelming to some people, especially those with sensitive noses.
The smell of ethanol in Equate hand sanitizer can be particularly noticeable when the product is first applied to the skin. As the ethanol evaporates, the smell can linger for a short period of time, leaving a strong, unpleasant odor on the skin. This can be a major turn-off for some people, especially those who prefer fragrant or scented hand sanitizers.
Is The Smell Of Equate Hand Sanitizer A Sign Of Its Effectiveness?
No, the smell of Equate hand sanitizer is not a sign of its effectiveness. The smell of ethanol in the product is simply a result of its high concentration, not its ability to kill germs and bacteria. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend using hand sanitizers that contain at least 60% ethanol, which is the concentration found in Equate hand sanitizer.
The effectiveness of Equate hand sanitizer is due to its ability to denature proteins and disrupt the cell membranes of germs and bacteria, ultimately killing them. This process is not related to the smell of the product, but rather its chemical composition and concentration of active ingredients.
Can I Get Used To The Smell Of Equate Hand Sanitizer?
Yes, it is possible to get used to the smell of Equate hand sanitizer over time. As with any strong-smelling product, repeated exposure can help desensitize the nose and reduce the perceived intensity of the smell. However, this can vary from person to person, and some people may never get used to the smell of Equate hand sanitizer.
If you find the smell of Equate hand sanitizer overwhelming, you can try using it in a well-ventilated area or applying a small amount to a discrete area of skin to minimize the smell. You can also try using a fragrant lotion or cream after applying the hand sanitizer to help mask the smell.
Are There Any Alternatives To Equate Hand Sanitizer That Don’t Smell As Bad?
Yes, there are many alternatives to Equate hand sanitizer that may have a milder or more pleasant smell. Some hand sanitizers use alternative active ingredients, such as benzalkonium chloride, which can be less pungent than ethanol. Others may use fragrances or essential oils to mask the smell of the active ingredients.
When shopping for a hand sanitizer, look for products that are labeled as “fragrance-free” or “unscented,” as these may be less likely to have a strong smell. You can also read reviews and do research to find hand sanitizers that are known for their mild or pleasant smell.
Is The Smell Of Equate Hand Sanitizer A Sign Of A Low-quality Product?
No, the smell of Equate hand sanitizer is not a sign of a low-quality product. Equate hand sanitizer is a reputable product that meets the standards set by the CDC and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for hand sanitizers. The smell of the product is simply a result of its high concentration of ethanol, not a reflection of its quality.
In fact, Equate hand sanitizer is a popular choice among consumers due to its effectiveness and affordability. While the smell may be a drawback for some people, it is not a reflection of the product’s quality or ability to kill germs and bacteria.
Can I Use Equate Hand Sanitizer If I Have Sensitive Skin?
If you have sensitive skin, you may want to exercise caution when using Equate hand sanitizer. The high concentration of ethanol in the product can be drying and irritating to some skin types, especially those with eczema or other skin conditions.
If you have sensitive skin, you may want to try a small patch test before using Equate hand sanitizer extensively. Apply a small amount to a discrete area of skin and wait 24 hours to see if any irritation occurs. If you experience any redness, itching, or burning, you may want to consider an alternative hand sanitizer that is labeled as “gentle” or “hypoallergenic.”
Is Equate Hand Sanitizer Safe For Children To Use?
Equate hand sanitizer is generally safe for children to use, but it’s always a good idea to supervise children when they are using hand sanitizer. Children may be more prone to putting their hands in their mouths or eyes after applying hand sanitizer, which can be irritating.
When using Equate hand sanitizer on children, make sure to apply a small amount to their hands and supervise them until the product is fully absorbed. You can also teach children to rub their hands together thoroughly and avoid touching their faces or eyes after applying hand sanitizer.