FAQ; ECOHYDRA ANTIMICROBIAL HANDLOTION

Why is the EcoHydra Antimicrobial HandLotion so unique? 

EcoHydra’s Antimicrobial HandLotion is a new hand lotion with an antimicrobial agent that destroys 99.9999% of known microbes instantly, while protecting and softening the skin. It is formulated with the moisturizing properties of aloe vera, to add additional skin conditioning and healing.

Does it work better with repeated use?

The product's performance improves with repeated use.  It is more effective the more it is used to a level exceeding FDA standards (AORN, August 1998).  The formulation does not contain alcohol, and provides long lasting moisturizing for the skin.

Why is hand hygiene so important in the role of disease transmission?

  • 80% of infectious diseases are spread by hand contact.
  • 76 million cases of food borne illness annually resulting in 325,000 hospitalizations
  • According to the Center for Disease Control, hand washing is the most effective way of preventing sickness.

What is the active ingredient? 

The Antimicrobial HandLotion contains the active ingredient Benzalkonium Chloride (BAC).  This ingredient on its own has been used for over 60 years in medical sanitation, and is approved for safety and effectiveness in antiseptic applications ranging from skin cleaners (e.g. Bactine®) to surface sanitizers (e.g. Lysol®).  The germ-killing activity of Benzalkonium Chloride is enhanced by utilizing our unique BASE™ Technology, so that it is effective in killing both Gram negative and Gram positive bacteria, as well as fungi, yeast, molds and certain viruses. 

Does your product contain Triclosan?

Absolutely not.  Triclosan's effectiveness and safety as an antibacterial agent is questionable. Our antibacterial agent, Benzalkonium Chloride, has proven its effectiveness and safety through decades of use in the medical field where sanitary environments are of vital importance.

I've heard that frequent antibacterial use is actually harmful; it eliminates "good bacteria".  Is this true?

There are "good bacteria" in your body to ensure proper health, like acidophilus in your digestive system.  However, after speaking with countless doctors and dermatologists, we have been unable to locate something that could be deemed a "good bacteria" for your hands, other than your own natural oils and fatty acids, which our product leaves intact.

Also, there is rising concern about antibiotic-resistant bacteria, but topical antibacterial products (as opposed to antibiotic medication) have not been shown to contribute to bacterial resistance, according to professionals such as Dr. Jerry McEwen, vice president for science at the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association.  However, reports by researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine have linked Triclosan to the development of new strains of bacteria in controlled laboratory experiments.

Why do you recommend a hand lotion as part of your Hand Hygiene Triangle?

In 2002 the CDC recommended the use of a hand lotion as part of good hand hygiene practice.  The key benefit of EcoHydra’s lotion is that it also has an active ingredient to disinfect the hands. 

How does a hand lotion contribute to the health of skin?

In day-to-day circumstances most people do not wash their hands frequently enough to prevent the spread of micro-organisms.  Using a hand lotion that has a disinfecting quality will decrease the spread of infections.

For healthcare workers and others in the foodservice, military, or other industry that demands it, hand washing can be as frequent as 20 times per day.  In this case, a hand lotion applied at regular intervals will help to maintain the smooth surface of the skin, and prevent cracks and chapping that can lead to areas that might harbour germs.

Can the products be used as part of a general handwashing protocol for hospital personnel?

Yes.  EcoHydra’s products were designed with the clinical environment in mind; however, they are gentle enough for daily use on the sensitive skin of children.  Therefore, they have applications in all businesses, for example, medical clinics, food preparation services and schools.

What tests has the EcoHydra Antimicrobial HandLotion undergone in Europe?

In vitro tests of the EcoHydra Handwash, Hand Lotion, and the Barrier Cream, have been completed based on the European prEN12054 standard in an independent laboratory on the following organisms:

  • Staphylococcus Epidermidis (HCAI)
  • Pseudomonas Aeruginosa (HCAI)
  • Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA – HCAI)
  • Methicillin Sensitive Staphylococcus Aureus (MSSA – HCAI)
  • Enterococcus Faecalis (HCAI)
  • Candida Albicans (Thrush)
  • Serratia Marcescens (HCAI)

Results of the prEN12054 testing on the HandLotion:

  • 30 sec log reductions against tested organisms:

prEN12054 Testing Results

 

We have experienced a softening of the skin with repeated use of EcoHydra’s products.  Why does this occur?

The EcoHydra system is formulated to be highly compatible with the skin.  It does not break down the skin's natural barrier, as do other actives found in alternative products.  In addition to this, Aloe Vera is a natural emollient and skin softener that helps the skin stay healthy with repeated product use.   

Does the product stain linens, equipment or skin?

No.  The EcoHydra products have no staining effect.

What is the recommended amount needed per application?

Understanding that various skin types have different natural moisture content, you should use enough to cover your hands (1 ml of the HandLotion).  The EcoHydra products have less surface tension than many traditional products, and therefore are easily spread on the hands.  This allows less of the product to go farther than standard soaps and cleansers. 

Under what conditions would the EcoHydra Antimicrobial HandLotion product not be used?

This product meets the performance criteria for healthcare personnel antiseptic hand lotions.  In addition to healthcare settings, the HandLotion may be used in clinical and food service settings, as well as for personal hygiene.
Copyright © EcoHydra Technologies Limited 2007