Do Antibacterial Soaps Really Protect Us More?

What Is The Difference?

During the COVID-19 Pandemic, many people are buying soaps branded antibacterial. Antibacterial soaps have chemicals in them, which kill bacteria on contact. Regular soaps on the other hand have no chemicals, and just wash off the germs. You would probably think that antibacterial soaps are more effective, but you would be surprised to find out that they’re not.

Why Isn’t Antibacterial Soap Better?

Recent studies show regular soap is just as effective as antibacterial soap. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned use of antibacterials in 2016, due to the effect of triclosan, the main ingredient in them. Triclosan proved to weaken the immune system, and increase chance developing allergies, eczema, and asthma. But their ban was overruled, because antibacterial was considered an OTC, or over the counter drug.

Plain Soaps

You can find plain soaps just about anywhere. Many stores like Bath & Body Works sell only plain soap. This type of soap does not have any chemicals in it, which is why there isn’t a drug facts label on the back. Instead, they work because of the molecules inside of them. Soap molecules are attracted to fats and oils, and many viruses and bacteria have fat surrounding them. The soap molecules move toward the bacteria, unhinging them from the skin, and down the water stream.

What Should You Buy?

As you now know, antibacterial soaps can be harmful, while regular soaps have no side effects. So, no, don’t waste your money on harmful antibacterial soaps, and buy plain soaps. Not only that, though. Many toothpastes and body soaps and shampoos have at least 1% triclosan in them. However, other naturally sourced brands like Tom’s and Schmidt’s don’t contain any triclosan at all! So, when you’re buying soaps, buy soaps that don’t have any antibacterial ingredients, just buy plain soap!