Which of the following is NOT a component of proper handwashing?

Moisturizing hands is not considered a component of proper handwashing. The primary objectives of handwashing are to effectively remove dirt, germs, and other impurities from the hands, which is accomplished through scrubbing, rinsing, and the use of soap.

The process involves scrubbing for a sufficient amount of time—typically around 20 seconds—to ensure that all areas of the hands are cleaned properly. Rinsing thoroughly is crucial as well because it helps wash away the soap along with any loosened dirt and germs. Using antibacterial soap can also be beneficial, as it may help reduce the bacterial load on the skin.

While moisturizing hands is a good practice for skin health, particularly in maintaining skin barrier function and preventing dryness, it is not part of the handwashing process itself. Therefore, it does not contribute to the immediate aim of reducing contamination during handwashing.