Most of us think that any form of hand sanitizer is always a good thing (see Keychain products). Did you know that some sanitizers could have you calling poison control?

Here's the scoop: In recent news, U.S. Food and Drug Association (FDA) warns against hand sanitizers that contain this toxic chemical:

METHANOL

This toxic substance is not intended to kill microorganisms like bacteria and viruses. Absorption through skin can result in blurred vision, permanent blindness, headaches, vomiting, nausea, seizures, comas, irreversible damage to the nervous system, or even death.

The FDA is warning consumers against using hand sanitizer products manufactured by Eskbiochem SA de CV in Mexico.

The following brands produced by Eskbiochem are as follows: 

• All-Clean Hand Sanitizer (NDC: 74589-002-01)
• Esk Biochem Hand Sanitizer (NDC: 74589-007-01)
• CleanCare NoGerm Advanced Hand Sanitizer 75% Alcohol (NDC: 74589-008-04)
• Lavar 70 Gel Hand Sanitizer (NDC: 74589-006-01)
• The Good Gel Antibacterial Gel Hand Sanitizer (NDC: 74589-010-10)
• CleanCare NoGerm Advanced Hand Sanitizer 80% Alcohol (NDC: 74589-005-03)
• CleanCare NoGerm Advanced Hand Sanitizer 75% Alcohol (NDC: 74589-009-01)
• CleanCare NoGerm Advanced Hand Sanitizer 80% Alcohol (NDC: 74589-003-01)
• Saniderm Advanced Hand Sanitizer (NDC: 74589-001-01)

The FDA discovered more than 80% methanol in their products, and little to no Ethyl alcohol like they claim to be formulated with.

As a result, the FDA is asking for Eskbiochem SA to recall their sanitizers, and users to dispose of them in

"appropriate hazardous waste containers."

To read CNN's full article click or tap here.

FAQs

1. How do you know if a sanitizer is toxic?

If the label doesn’t say it’s safe to use on skin you shouldn’t use it. If it’s not on the label, it’s not safe to use on skin. Don’t use any sanitizer that lists alcohol among the active ingredients. Alcohol is drying to the skin and the CDC has determined that it’s not good to use on hands or on any part of the body. If you are using a hand sanitizer you should limit the exposure to less than 20 seconds for the alcohol to dry.

2. What are the risks of sanitizers?

Sanitizers are safe to use as long as the skin is thoroughly cleaned before applying it. When used as directed, it is safe for family use. However, if if you a sensitive skin, the sanitizer may cause an irritation or allergic reaction. This may be due to the product you are using or due to the fact that you are using it in the wrong manner. Make sure you read the instructions carefully and use it according to your skin type.

3. Is using sanitizers dangerous?

Short term exposure to the chemicals used in the sanitizers is not dangerous. However, there are many people who have developed an allergy to the chemicals used in the sanitizers. If you have developed an allergy to the chemicals used in the sanitizers, it is best to avoid using the product. Also, the chemicals used in the sanitizers irritate the eyes so it is best to avoid using them on a regular basis. This way, the body will develop an immunity to the chemicals used in the sanitizers.