Formulating Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer Gel with Fragrance

Question

I want to make a hand sanitizer gel and add a fruit fragrance. Initially, I thought about using a mild facial cleanser formula as a base, similar to the one discussed here, and just adding fragrance. However, I understand that hand sanitizer needs alcohol to kill germs. Can you provide a conceptual formula and procedure for an alcohol-based hand sanitizer gel that includes a fruit fragrance and addresses potential skin dryness?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Hygienic Hand Sanitizer Gel Formulation (Concept)

To make a proper hygienic hand sanitizer gel, the main ingredient must be alcohol (Ethanol or Isopropyl Alcohol) at an appropriate concentration (around 70%) to effectively kill germs. The previous suggestion to use a mild facial cleanser formula is not directly suitable for hand sanitizing, as facial cleansers focus on removing dirt, while hand sanitizers focus on killing germs with alcohol.

Based on the search for related ingredients, we found gelling agents (like Carbomer), humectants (like Glycerin, Propanediol), and fruit fragrance oils that can be used in the formulation. However, the specific type of alcohol used as the primary disinfectant in the required quantity for hand sanitizer was not found among the search results for "alcohol".

Nevertheless, we can provide a basic concept for making a fruit-scented, non-drying alcohol-based hand sanitizer gel:

Hygienic Hand Sanitizer Gel Formula (Concept)

Essential Main Ingredients:

Alcohol (Ethanol or Isopropyl Alcohol): The final concentration in the formula should be around 70% for germ-killing effectiveness.
Gelling Agent: Such as Carbomer, to create the gel consistency.
Humectant: Such as Glycerin or Propanediol, to help reduce skin dryness caused by alcohol.
Fragrance Oil: Your desired fruit scent.
Water: May be needed to adjust the alcohol concentration to the appropriate range if starting with higher percentage alcohol.

General Procedure (Concept):

Slowly sprinkle the gelling agent (e.g., Carbomer) into water (if used) or alcohol, stirring until fully dispersed.
Add a neutralizer to thicken the gel (for certain types of Carbomer).
Add the humectant (Glycerin or Propanediol) and stir until well combined.
Add the alcohol (if not added in the first step) and stir thoroughly. Ensure the final alcohol concentration is within the 60-80% range (recommended around 70%).
Add the fruit fragrance oil and mix well.
Package into suitable containers.

Precautions:

Using a large amount of alcohol can dry out the skin, so adding a humectant is important.
You should study the usage instructions for each specific gelling agent, as preparation methods may vary.
Some fragrance oils might affect the clarity or viscosity of the gel. It's advisable to test in a small batch first.

Related products found from the search include:

Gelling Agents: Carbomer 940, Carbomer Ultrez 30, CarboQuick™ (Pre-Dispersed Carbomer Gel)
Humectants: Glycerin (USP/Food Grade), Propanediol (1,3-Propanediol)
Fruit Fragrance Oils: Strawberry (Fragrance Oil), Grapefruit (Fragrance Oil)

You can consider using these ingredients to develop your hand sanitizer gel formula.