Who Invented Hand Sanitiser and Why?
Who Invented Hand Sanitiser and Why?
By Rising Sun Lifestyle
In today’s world, hand sanitiser has become a staple in nearly every bag, office, and home. It’s a quick and convenient way to clean our hands when soap and water aren’t available. But have you ever wondered about the origins of this essential product? Who invented hand sanitiser, and why did they create it?
The Invention of Hand Sanitiser
Hand sanitiser, in its modern form, was invented by Lupe Hernandez in 1966. At the time, Hernandez was a medical professional working in a hospital in California. She realised that health professionals, especially those working in areas where soap and water were not always readily available, needed an effective way to kill germs and bacteria.
Drawing from her medical knowledge, Hernandez developed a formula using alcohol as the primary active ingredient, which has been proven to effectively kill germs and bacteria. The alcohol-based formula was more efficient than soap and water in some cases, particularly in environments where access to water was limited.
However, Hernandez’s invention didn’t immediately take off. It wasn’t until the early 2000s that hand sanitiser became widely popular, driven by health campaigns and, more importantly, the global spread of infectious diseases like SARS and the H1N1 flu virus.
Why Was Hand Sanitiser Created?
The invention of hand sanitiser was driven by practical necessity. During the 1960s, especially in hospital settings, healthcare workers were required to maintain strict hygiene practices but often faced situations where they couldn’t wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water. This posed a significant risk of cross-contamination and infection.
Hand sanitiser solved this problem by providing an easy-to-carry solution that could kill germs on the spot without the need for water or lengthy procedures. It became an instant tool for professionals in medical, food service, and other hygiene-sensitive industries.
Beyond the medical field, the importance of hand hygiene grew in the general public’s awareness during the late 20th century. Hand sanitiser made its way into homes, schools, and workplaces as people became more conscious of how easily germs spread. It offered a quick and convenient way for individuals to protect themselves from infections.
The Evolution of Hand Sanitiser
Today, hand sanitiser is available in various forms—gels, sprays, wipes—and in many scents and formulations. While alcohol (usually ethanol or isopropanol) remains the primary ingredient, some sanitisers now include additional ingredients like aloe vera to prevent skin dryness.
Its popularity skyrocketed again during the COVID-19 pandemic, as people sought ways to stay safe and reduce the spread of the virus. This global health crisis reminded us of the power of basic hygiene, and hand sanitisers became a go-to tool for maintaining personal safety.
Conclusion
Hand sanitiser was invented by Lupe Hernandez in 1966, with the goal of providing a convenient and effective solution for hand hygiene in environments where soap and water weren’t available. Over time, the product has evolved into a must-have item, essential for health professionals and everyday people alike. Its widespread use is a testament to how a simple invention can help protect public health, whether in a hospital setting or in the midst of a global pandemic.
Next time you reach for that little bottle of hand sanitiser, remember the woman who made it possible—and the reason we continue to rely on it today.