Formulation and Evaluation of a Natural Hand Sanitizer Using Aloe Vera and Calamansi
Extracts
INTRODUCTION
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
In recent years, people around the world have become more conscious of the importance of
proper hygiene—especially hand hygiene. The COVID-19 pandemic served as a powerful
reminder of how something as simple as cleaning our hands can help stop the spread of harmful
diseases. As a result, the use of hand sanitizers has become part of our daily routine. However,
most commercial hand sanitizers rely heavily on alcohol and synthetic chemicals. While they are
effective at killing germs, they can also cause side effects like dry skin, irritation, and even
allergic reactions when used frequently.
This has led many individuals and communities to look for safer, more natural alternatives. In
the Philippines, we are fortunate to have easy access to plants like Aloe vera and calamansi—
both known for their beneficial properties. Aloe vera is well-known for its soothing and
moisturizing effects on the skin, and it also contains natural antibacterial compounds. Calamansi
(Citrus microcarpa), a common citrus fruit in Filipino households, is rich in vitamin C and has
antiseptic and antibacterial qualities. Its fresh, citrus scent also makes it a pleasant ingredient in
hygiene products.
This research seeks to create a hand sanitizer made from Aloe vera and calamansi extracts—
offering a natural, skin-friendly, and affordable alternative to commercial options. More than just
a health solution, this study also promotes the use of local resources and supports the idea of
sustainable, community-based approaches to hygiene and wellness.
LITERATURE REVIEW
A.The primary challenges in hand sanitizers are frequently guaranteeing effective antibacterial action,
skin safety, natural ingredients, and safety for repeated use. In particular, the difficulty lies in striking a
balance between the advantageous qualities of natural ingredients like calamansi and aloe vera and the
requirement for appropriate formulation to guarantee that it kills germs efficiently while being kind to the
skin.
Developing a hand sanitizer with natural ingredients such as aloe vera and calamansi is important
because it can be used as an effective and skin-friendly alternative to those who produce chemical-based
sanitizers that are very harmful and dangerous to our health.
Aloe vera is known for its soothing and moisturizing properties, helping to prevent skin dryness, and
calamansi also provides natural antimicrobial benefits and a fresh scent.
The formulation of a hand sanitizer derived from Aloe Vera and Calamansi must be studied in order to
ensure that the product is both safe and effective for users. Proper research and formulation development
help to reduce skin irritation, assure product stability over time, and meet with regulatory criteria. Finally,
thorough preparation yields a high-quality, dependable hand sanitizer that users can rely on to clean their
hands properly and without causing harm.
C.
