Stop using antibacterial soap

by Gene on May. 14th, 2008
in Human Organism

comments

Sometimes the old ways are best: New-fangled antibacterial soap doesn’t work any better than plain soap, but contains chemicals that may harm the environment.
Courtesy Brandon Cirillo

Seriously. Epulopiscium notwithstanding, it does no good, and it may do harm.

Soaps marketed as “antibacterial” contain the chemical triclosan. Numerous studies have shown that soap with tricolsan is no better at killing bacteria than regular soap. Besides, most of the diseases people wash their hands to avoid are actually caused by viruses – antibacterial agents have no effect on them. (Plain old soap and water does.)

The triclosan gets into the water supply, where it may harm the environment. Some studies suggest it might form toxic compounds. Others indicate that some germs become immune to triclosan over time.

The negative side-effects have not been totally proven, but why take the chance? There is no benefit to using antibacterial soap, so we’re all better off using the regular stuff.

Your Comments, Thoughts, Questions, Ideas

shanee says:

Wow i thought that made a bit of sense....they are all soap! its all the same thing.

posted on Thu, 05/15/2008 - 9:49am

zephyr says:

well that crazy.........i agree with shanee they are all the same
Kulyas

posted on Thu, 05/15/2008 - 9:57am

Amanda says:

we need to clense our bodies and keep clean but how are we suppose to do that if it doesnt even kill the bacteria.

posted on Thu, 05/15/2008 - 9:57am

Gene says:

Normal, everyday soap does an excellent job at getting rid of bacteria. The germs cling to dirt and oil on your skin. Soap bubbles pick up the dirt and oil, and water washed them away.

Remember what Momma said: wash your hands for at least 20 seconds every time before you touch food, and every time after you use the bathroom.

posted on Thu, 05/15/2008 - 10:34am