Do Antibacterial Soaps Perform as They are Advertised?
4. They disturb the immune system
Research has shown that some children who used antibacterial soaps for a long period of time developed allergies and hay fever. According to scientists, triclosan kills all bacteria – even the friendly variety and the essential ones which help in maintaining and developing the immune system. Due to the absence of these essential bacteria, the immune system is likely to deplete in its functionality and efficiency. This could result in several health problems as the body is unable to fight even ordinary infections and viruses.
5. They are bad for the environment
The chemical triclosan eventually goes down to the surface of the earth through our drainage and sewage systems and gets deposited in water bodies in large quantities. Triclosan is very harmful for the aquatic flora and fauna. This chemical disrupts the photosynthesis process of algae and enters the bloodstream of larger water animals like dolphins.
Instead of using antibacterial soap, you should use non-antibiotic sanitizers which contains alcohol and kills both bacteria and viruses. Otherwise, using the ordinary soap and water is in fact more effective in cleaning hands than antibacterial soaps.
