9 Reasons to Stop Using Antibacterial Soap Right Now
Antibacterial soaps were once considered essential for hygiene. But research and bans, including by the US FDA, have raised serious concerns. So, is antibacterial soap bad for you? Should you stop using antibacterial soap right now?
Today, we’ll tell you reasons why you might want to ditch antibacterial soap, especially those containing Triclosan and Triclocarban, and explore safe alternatives. Read on.
Why Was Antibacterial Soap Banned in the US?
In 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officially banned the sale of over-the-counter antibacterial soaps containing Triclosan and Triclocarban. According to the FDA, there was no scientific evidence proving these soaps were more effective than regular soap and water, and worse, they posed serious health risks.
Let’s see the reasons behind this bold decision and why it matters to people globally, not just in the US.
What Is Triclosan?
Triclosan is a synthetic chemical developed in the 1960s as an antimicrobial agent. It was added to everything from soap and toothpaste to kitchenware and toys. But newer studies have revealed shocking effects on both human health and the environment.
9 Reasons to Stop Using Antibacterial Soap Right Now
Here are the main reasons why this chemical has caused such an uproar.
Breast Cancer Risk
Research has linked Triclosan to the growth and spread of breast cancer cells. And remember, breast cancer affects men too, not just women.
Antibiotic Resistance
It has been found, that this chemical may causing bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics. The dawn of the superbug as the saying goes. In other words, when we are ill from any bacterial disease, antibiotics will have lesser of an effect, because the bacteria has become immune to the medicine.
Impact Fertility and Pregnancy
In a study it was found that triclosan might affect fertility and the outcome of pregnancy. Thus it could be one of the causes of growing impotency.
Damaging to the Environment
Water treatment plants cannot totally remove this chemical, thus it stays in the environment. It has also further been detected in breast milk, urine and plasma.
Further to this, in a Swedish study, it was noted that the percentage was as high as three out of five samples of Breast Milk.
As per the Centre for Disease control (CDC), it was found that Triclosan was detected in the urine of nearly 75% of the people tested.
Affects the Food Chain
Even though the quantity in the eco-system might not be at a toxic level, Trisclosan has potential to affect lower species in the food chain, and thus get transferred to humans in the process.
Causes Hormonal Imbalances
Triclosan is considered an endocrine disruptor. It might disrupt the endocrine system (endocrine-disrupting agent), and specifically, effect the stability of the thyroid hormone and the reproductive system.
In a study on the North American Bull-frog, this chemical was found to effect the thyroid hormone-associated gene expression.
Triggers Allergic Reactions
Now, various studies have been carried out to check Triclosan in relation with allergies. For one, 10 year old Norwegian children were studied and it was found that Triclosan was the cause of allergic reactions. In another study, it was found that triclosan might augment the allergic reaction of other allergens.
Reduces Muscle Strength
It was found that Triclosan reduces the ability of the heart and other muscles to contact and in effect is responsible for the loss of muscle strength.
No Proven Extra Benefit Over Regular Soap
According to the FDA, antibacterial soaps offer no added protection against germs compared to regular soap and water. So why take the risk?
Products That Contain Triclosan
Now, Triclosan is not only present in antibacterial soap, it is also present in various other products.
- Toothpaste.
- Deodorants.
- Cosmetics.
- Dishwashing liquids.
Manufacturers also introduced this chemical into textiles and toys, to make them resistant to bacteria.
How to Know if a Product Has Triclosan?
That is relatively simple. Manufacturers are required to display the ingredients of the product on the product itself. So simply read the ingredients label. Most antibacterial products will have Triclosan and/ or Triclocarban.
Wrapping Up
Triclosan-laden antibacterial soaps were once a symbol of cleanliness, but research now paints a different picture. From cancer risks and hormonal disruptions to environmental damage, the risks far outweigh the benefits. Skip the antibacterial hype, just go for regular soap and smart hygiene instead.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q. Safer Alternatives to Antibacterial Soap?
If you are looking for Triclosan-free hygiene options, use natural, chemical-free soaps, castile soap, organic or plant-based personal care products.
Q. Why You Should Care Even If You Don’t Live in the US?
While the US FDA has banned Triclosan in consumer soaps, many countries still allow it. Just because it’s legally available doesn’t mean it’s safe. Be a conscious consumer and protect your health and the environment by avoiding harmful antibacterial products.
