Wash hands before dipping into tank?

[DougSmith]

Hey All:
I would like to wash my hands in something that will not harm my reef before I do my maintenance. I asked my local LFS, and they said merely rinse. I know I shouldn't use soap, what can I use? I am not comfortable with just a rinse.

[Original Fin]

Hey All:
I would like to wash my hands in something that will not harm my reef before I do my maintenance. I asked my local LFS, and they said merely rinse. I know I shouldn't use soap, what can I use? I am not comfortable with just a rinse.

I agree with your LFS. No soap, detergents, oils or fragrances. Better still, use sterile gloves.

[tank1970]

I know this sounds like common sense and having some experience with fresh water, the fact that I have washed my hands with soap before putting my hands in the sw tank make me realize why I read the forums - for smart and commonsense reminders. Some times common sense is not common (deal with it everyday)

Now saying that since I have made this mistake (tank is only 2 1/2 weeks old) with LR and cheo algae - will this have a long term effect? should I do something like adding activated charcoal to the refugium?

Only happened twice (both aquascaping and rock scrub) and before anyone freaks out or thinks I am totally nuts I did not clean my tank, tank acssesories or rocks with soap LOL