Antibacterial Soaps: Is it possible you are doing more harm than good by using antibacterial soap?
It?s widely known that hand washing is the key to combating the spread of bugs like staphylococcus and streptococcus, which can create skin infections and cause colds. Nasty bugs such as salmonella and E coli are sometimes deposited in our food due to negligent washing habits of restaurant employees. It only seems logical that an antibacterial agent could up the ante on the war on germs. Ironically, antibacterial soaps may be contributing to the spread of disease and making those diseases harder to fight.
In the quest to be clean, people are instantly drawn to those products labeled ?antibacterial?. The range of products ranges from hand sanitizers to dish detergents to bath soaps and surface cleaners. The truth is that most of these products are doing an excellent job against bacteria, however, what a lot of people do not realize is that it?s all very temporary; the very next time new contact occurs between skin and objects, new bacteria is involved. In addition, viruses account for a significant amount of contact illnesses and these antibacterial agents are not effective against them.
Meanwhile, the scientific community is debating whether we?re creating super bugs as we did with the overuse of antibiotics. The effectiveness of creating resistant bacteria has been clearly demonstrated in the lab, but many researchers feel that it has not been proven in the real world. On the other hand, other scientists ask: ?why wait for bacteria such as streptococcus, E coli and salmonella to become monsters to treat??
The prospects of how these agents can affect the community at large are a large concern, but what they are doing to individuals is another pressing concern. Antibacterial soaps can wreak havoc on your hands. The harsh detergents that comprise a lot of these soaps can strip away the naturally protective fats and oils in the skin. If normal healthy skin turns dry, rough open sores will develop. Open sores will attract other bacteria and possibly create skin problems such as eczema. This can begin a vicious cycle of one person with hand eczema touching something or shaking hands and infecting someone else. Eczema is one of the types of dermatitis that we can do something about. Other types may require expensive/extensive expert help to correct.
Despite all of the negative speculation, antibacterial soaps do serve a good purpose. Places where infectious diseases can spread rapidly such as nursing homes, child care centers, or restaurants will benefit greatly when employees use antibacterial soaps. For the average home, sticking with the following basics is the best weapon on the war against germs.
1) Employ good old-fashioned hand washing techniques using traditional soap and warm water for at least 15 seconds and covering as much surface as possible.
2) When cleaning the house, stick with products that contain ammonia or bleach as they tackle bacteria and viruses equally well.
3) Use paper towels more often as dishtowels and sponges are breeding grounds for all types of bacteria.
Antibacterial soaps are not the cure-all for keeping germs at bay; however, with a little warm water and knowledge you can make informed decisions when it comes to keeping clean.
Antibacterial Soaps
by Dr. Celeste
More Details at: www.dailyphysician.com
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About the Author
Dr. Celeste, Irvine, CA USA
www.dailyphysician.com
Celeste E. Williams, M.D., received her bachelor's degree in biology from Brown University and obtained her M.D. at Cornell University Medical College in NYC. She completed an internship in Internal Medicine at Lenox Hill Hospital and residency in obstetrics/gynecology at St. Luke's /Roosevelt Hospital Center in NYC. As a board certified OB/GYN, Dr. Williams is a fellow of the American Board of OB/GYN. Additionally, as a Diplomat of the National Board of Medical Examiners, she maintains her membership with the American College of OB/GYN and the AMA. Dr. Williams and a board of directors have reviewed and/or written all information available at www.dailyphysician.com
