Essential oils can be added to homemade hand sanitizers to provide a pleasant aroma, but it is important to note that essential oils alone do not have antimicrobial properties and are not effective at killing germs. In order to be effective at killing germs, a hand sanitizer must contain at least 60% alcohol.
To make a homemade hand sanitizer with essential oils, you can follow a recipe that includes both alcohol and essential oils. Some common essential oils that are often used in hand sanitizers include tea tree oil, which has antimicrobial properties, and lavender oil, which has a calming aroma.
When using essential oils in a homemade hand sanitizer, it is important to use caution and to follow the recommended dosage. Some essential oils can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people, and some essential oils should not be used during pregnancy. It is generally recommended to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil, such as almond oil or coconut oil, before using them on the skin. If you are considering using essential oils in a homemade hand sanitizer, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a trained aromatherapist.