The Truth About Antibacterial Soap (in cough and cold )

You've undoubtedly been stacking up on antibacterial soap due to the repeated warnings about washing and sanitizing your hands because the label suggests that it provides further defense against germs. You might be astonished to learn, though, that this particular soap doesn't actually provide any further anti-germ defense. The fact that some of the chemicals in antibacterial soaps may actually cause more harm than benefit is even worse.


Antibacterial soaps, often known as antimicrobial or antiseptic soaps, contain certain compounds that are absent from regular soaps. With the aim of decreasing or avoiding bacterial infection, such chemicals are included in many consumer items.


WHAT ARE ANTI BACTERIAL SOAPS MADE OF ?

Numerous environmental, intellectual, and regulatory organisations are concerned about the chemical triclosan, which is present in many liquid soaps marketed as antibacterial. Studies on animals have revealed that triclosan changes how several hormones function, raising questions about possible side effects in people. More research is required since we are unsure of how triclosan affects people.

ARE THESE SOAPS SAFE TO USE ?


The sale of soaps containing specific antibacterial compounds was subject to a final rule that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published in 2016. Over-the-counter (OTC) consumer antiseptic wash products containing specific active chemicals were no longer allowed to be marketed since producers had been unable to demonstrate that the compounds in these soaps were safe to use over the long term or more efficient than soap and water.

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The FDA took action against 19 chemicals, including bar soap and liquid hand soap, that make up nearly 40% of all soaps. The two compounds that are most frequently utilized are triclosan and triclocarban, which are both found in liquid soap and bar soap, respectively.


EVIDENCE


No evidence exists to support the claim that these medications offer supplementary defense against illnesses and infections. People who use these goods might feel unjustly secure, You have been misled if  you choose to use these products because you think they would protect you more than soap and water. There are many additional items with similar formulas that you can use if you use them based on how they make you feel instead of exposing your family to unwanted toxins. And some producers have started to change these products to eliminate these substances.


HANDWASHING USING  REGULAR SOAP


Lathering soap and water traps and eliminates pollutants and germs from hands. Applying soap to clean, damp hands before using soap to dry hands results in a better lather.  Thick lather produces micelles, which serve as traps for debris, bacteria, and harmful chemicals on your hands.

Using soap and scrubbing your hands for 20 seconds is essential to this procedure because it physically kills germs and eliminates them from your skin. By rinsing your hands, you flush toxins and pathogens down the drains.

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PROS AND CONS


The availability of antibiotic soaps at most retail establishments and their ability to get rid of harmful bacteria are two advantages. The drawback is that they can also wipe off good microorganisms on your skin. Their extra chemicals might rob natural oils from your skin and leave it feeling dry. Antibacterial soap might sometimes offer people a false impression of cleanliness, leading them to wash less regularly.

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Unless antibacterial soap is suggested by a doctor, plain soap is advised for non-healthcare situations in the home and public. Outside of a meticulously sanitized healthcare environment, antibacterial soaps are not any more effective at eradicating germs.

Handwashing thoroughly is typically the deciding factor in preventing germ-related illnesses.


CONCLUSION


Antibacterial soaps are no more effective in eradicating disease-causing microorganisms than regular soap and water. There is no proof that antibacterial soaps are more effective than regular soap for avoiding infection in the majority of domestic or public settings. Thus, ordinary soap is advised for use in public, places other than healthcare facilities, and at home unless your doctor advises differently.

Dr. Aabru
Dr. Aabru

I am Aabru Butt, an accomplished author and passionate advocate of holistic healing. My journey has led me to a BHMS degree from SRI GURUNANK DEV HOMEOPATHIC MEDICAL COLLEGE AND HOSPITAL, where I have cultivated a deep understanding of homeopathic medicine. My writing reflects a harmonious blend of practical experience and academic expertise, illustrating my commitment to providing accurate and insightful information.