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Plain Soap and Water

The question of the day: Should I use antibacterial soap? It seems that modern day people are more obsessed with cleanliness, sterilizing and disinfecting than ever before. But are we doing more harm than good?

On September 2, 2016 the FDA published a consumer update stating that "there isn’t enough science to show that over-the-counter (OTC) antibacterial soaps are better at preventing illness than washing with plain soap and water. In addition, the wide use of these products over a long time has raised the question of potential negative effects on your health."

Triclosan can be found in many consumer products today. "Because of that, people’s long-term exposure to triclosan is higher than previously thought, raising concerns about the potential risks associated with the use of this ingredient over a lifetime."

In addition, laboratory studies have raised the possibility that triclosan contributes to making bacteria resistant to antibiotics. Some data shows this resistance may have a significant impact on the effectiveness of medical treatments.

Cleaning is still very important! The mechanical force—the act of rubbing your hands together under hot water with soap—is what dislodges and cleans away harmful microbes.

The idea that soap kills germs is a misconception. Then how does soap get you clean? In simple terms, soap is magnet to both water and dirt; it attaches itself to both water and germs. When you lather with soap it attracts the dirt and then when you rinse with water the soap along with the dirt gets washed away.

The FDA's recommendation: "Wash your hands with plain soap and water. That’s still one of the most important steps you can take to avoid getting sick and to prevent spreading germs."

Mountain Girl Soap is pure soap made without the addition of Triclosan or other antibacterial chemicals. So feel free to stay calm and lather on!

Learn More: Handmade Soap Guide - Nearly Everything You Need To Know

Happy Hand Washing,