Alcohol-based sand sanitizers (ABHSs) are effective in controlling the spread of COVID-19 and has been integrated to our daily life since the onset of the outbreak. However, the sudden and unprecedented global induction of ABHSs has not been smooth, as conflicting reports continued to pour into the public domain, not all for good reason. This review, therefore, attempts to identify the emerging aspects of ABHSs in the era of COVID-19. Articles indexed in Scopus and PubMed on “hand sanitizer” published between January 2020 and February 2021, were screened based on PRISMA guidelines, and classified into different thematic groups. Selected articles on hand sanitizers (101) primarily echo “health hazard” (40, 39.6%) associated with accidental/intentional exposure, methanol toxicity, or occupational irritant contact dermatitis. Articles on “formulations” (23, 22.8%) and “efficacy” (18, 17.8%) mainly refer to alcoholic preparations, though a small subset of formulations has been actually been tested against SARS-Cov-2. Articles on semi-alcoholic, non-alcoholic, or even ayurvedic preparations have been implicated without a standardized efficacy report. Quality concern (12, 11.9%), and shortage (8, 7.9%) have also been reflected in publications during the pandemic. However, this representation is somewhat overinflated given that 28% of total articles are of review, editorial, letters, and not actual case studies. Many potential studies designed in the pandemic might not have reached to publication stage. However, the implication from existing studies on the use of ABHSs can still be useful to build better public awareness, and prioritize interventional strategies among stakeholders.