Diana Farah Dubai

Sanitizing products have gained popularity amid the global outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19. Hand sanitizers, in particular, have a place in every pocket and handbag nowadays.

Making one’s own hand sanitizer can provide a peace of mind since the ingredients are known and can reduce costs on sanitation products.

A simple DIY sanitizer recipe would require isopropyl alcohol, aloe vera gel, glycerin, an essential oil, vitamin C and a container of one’s choice.

In a glass bowl, pour two thirds of 90 percent isopropyl alcohol, which will act as the main disinfectant. Then pour in one third aloe vera gel and mix well.

After mixing, adding in an essential oil such as lavender or tea tree oil into the mixture will provide a pleasant scent and other benefits for the skin.

Glycerin is also added, making the sanitizer moisturizing for the skin, protecting it from the harsh alcohol that could dry out the skin with excess use.

Mixing vitamin C into the hand sanitizer is optional but can provide extra protection against viruses and respiratory infections, according to studies published by the US National Center for Biotechnology Information.

Once the sanitizer is mixed well, it can be poured into any container for personal use.

An official guide on how to make hand sanitizer from the World Health Organization is also available.