TITLE:
The Effects of Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer and Cologne Use on Blood Alcohol Levels and Nasal Functions
AUTHORS:
Abdulbaki Sökmen, Arzu Tatar
KEYWORDS:
Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer, Cologne, Serum Ethanol Level, Nasal Function, Mucociliary Clearance
JOURNAL NAME:
International Journal of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery,
Vol.15 No.1,
January
22,
2026
ABSTRACT: Objective: This study aims to investigate the effects of alcohol-based hand sanitizers (ABHS) and cologne, which are widely used in infection control, on blood alcohol level and nasal functions. Methods: Sixty volunteer healthcare workers were included in this prospective study conducted at Atatürk University Faculty of Medicine. Participants were divided into three groups: hand sanitizer users, cologne users, and a control group. Serum ethanol levels, nasal function tests (VAS score, rhinomanometry, saccharin test), and nasal culture results were evaluated in all participants before and after the study. Results: Total nasal airway resistance did not differ significantly between groups (p > 0.05). The mucociliary clearance time increased slightly in both groups after exposure. A significant increase in serum ethanol levels was found after the use of hand sanitizer (p 0.05). A decrease in bacterial colony count was observed in nasal cultures after the use of both products (p Conclusion: Use of alcohol-based hand sanitizer and cologne increases serum ethanol levels to detectable levels and causes changes in some nasal parameters with short-term use. However, these changes are not at a pathological level. Both products have an effect of reducing nasal bacterial colonization.