With the arrival of the holidays, the number one temptation should be that of sunbathing. However, the Covid-19 pandemic means taking precautions, such as bringing a bottle of hydroalcoholic gel. However, dermatologists warn that hydroalcoholic gel and the sun do not mix.
Going on vacation to tan in the sun means bringing sunscreen. Nevertheless, some would be tempted to use hydroalcoholic gel (70% alcohol), one of the barrier gestures against Covid-19. In an article in the Spanish daily El Mundo published on June 17, 2020, local dermatologists explain that hydroalcoholic gel is to be avoided under the sun.
Dermatologist at Quirónsalud Hospital in Marbella, Dr. Marta Frieyro believes that the rapid absorption of hydroalcoholic gel is misleading. Indeed, it is easy to believe that the product evaporates completely. The applicant believes that, on the contrary, the product stays on the skin for a long time and that in contact with the sun, it can be a question of burns.
Parisian dermatologist Catherine Oliverès-Ghouti spoke about the topic in a 20 Minutes article a few days later. The expert did not mince words and put a name to the consequences of the hydroalcoholic gel/sun association. By exposing their gel-treated hands to the sun, swimmers could develop charm dermatitis. This is a characteristic burn caused by the reaction of alcohol on the skin with the sun. In addition, children whose skin is thinner are more fragile.
Dermatitis en breloque can also be linked to other products such as certain sunscreens containing bergamot, or even perfumes. In fact, the best way to maintain good hand hygiene under the sun is none other than cold water and soap.
A 2015 study also pointed out that hydroalcoholic gel could be dangerous for your health in the long term. This gel has bactericidal, virucidal and fungicidal properties obviously welcome in times of Covid-19. However, if this product kills the bacteria, they remain on the hands. In other words, there is no substitute for hand washing.
In addition, the study estimated that regular use of hydroalcoholic gel could facilitate the absorption of Bisphenol A . Highlighted in recent years, this substance is an endocrine disruptor with multiple consequences. These include the decline in the quality and quantity of sperm in men or the appearance of miscarriages, obesity and other cancers.
