Antibacterial Soaps

The best way to keep toxic chemicals out of your home is to know where these chemicals are coming from, and how to make wiser choices when buying common consumer products for your household.  One misleading product that most consumers buy believing they are buying a healthy and safe product to protect themselves and family from germs, are antibacterial soaps.  These products contain the chemical Triclosan, also known as Irgasan and Microban; in them which is considered by the EPA as a pesticide.  Triclosan has been proven to be effective in hospitals in fighting off infections, but one may want to reconsider using these products after learning of some of the interesting facts recent research is revealing.

Nearly 50% off all soaps on the market today contain some form of antibacterial agent in them.  There have been studies that households using antibacterial products had no reduced colds, sickness or signs of infections than households that do not use antibacterial products.  More and more research is showing direct relations from chemicals such as Triclosan to cause severe health issues, such a weakened immune system, cancer, birth defects, decreased fertility, skin allergies, and much more.  Our skin is permeable and what we put on it will work its way into our bodies.

There are many ways you can keep your skin and body healthy without using Triclosan.  For one you can start by using natural handmade soaps such as goat milk soap, that are made with pure essential oils and no harsh and unnecessary chemicals in them.  Some essential oils such as tea tree oil have antimicrobial properties.  It is important to wash your hands often, especially before eating, after going to the bathroom, when you are around sick people or preparing food.  Be sure to lather the soap for at least 10 to 15 seconds and rinse with warm water, drying your hand with a clean towel.    I think most importantly you should wash your hands often, and when in public areas, try not to touch areas of your face, especially during flu season.