Surprising Facts About Killing Germs

The secret weapon to killing "99.9% of germs is Triclosan, which is a potent synthetic chemical.  According to the U.S. Environment Protection Agency (EPA), Triclosan is an antimicrobial active ingredient contained in a variety of products where it acts to slow or stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, and mildew.  The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), however, has not received evidence that the triclosan provides an extra benefit to health other than in toothpaste. At this time, the agency does not have evidence that triclosan in antibacterial soaps and body washes provides any benefit over washing with regular soap and water.

Antibacterial products are unnecessary

The University of Southern California states that it is possible to kill germs without using antibacterial products. With regular soap and warm water, the key is to wash hands long enough. Rather than rinsing immediately after applying soap to hands, rub hands together for at least fifteen seconds before rinsing.  According to the above information, soap and water is the best for removing bacteria.

 

Handwashing with water alone

Handwashing with non-antibacterial soap is much more effective in removing bacteria from hands than handwashing with water only, according to the Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Although handwashing with water alone reduced the presence of bacteria on hands substantially, the study supports the policy of many current hand hygiene campaigns promoting the use of soap.  A Triclosan-based hand cleanser and an alcohol-based hand cleanser are tied at second, at this time, depending on who you get your information from determines which one is actually better.

Soaps containing Triclosan

Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar, Antibacterial - 4.5 oz

One 4.5-ounce antibacterial gentle cleansing bar
Active ingredient triclosan offers effective cleansing for dry, sensitive skin
The optimal choice for patients with skin conditions; non-soap, neutral pH formulations leave no irritating residue and are non-comedogenic
Unique dual-action moisturizing and antibacterial/deodorant benefits in a mild formulation for all-over body cleansing 
Manufactured by Galderma Laboratories, a major benefactor of the Dermatology 
                       Foundation, helping to fund critical dermatology research

 

Provon Foaming Medicated Handwash with Moisturizers and Triclosan, 535 mL (Case of 4)

Contains 0.3% triclosan, a common antibacterial and antifungal agent
Meets healthcare personnel handwash protocol
Appealing translucent blue color with light floral fragrance
Moisturizers to help maintain the skin's natural barrier
Convenient 535-mL pump bottles for countertop use

Noxzema Ultimate Clear Anti-Bacterial Lathering Cleanser, 6 Ounce

Anti-bacterial lathering cleanser Deep cleans down to the pores
Clears blemishes and fights bacteria
Active Ingredients: Triclosan (0.3%, Anti-Bacterial)

For cleansing to decrease bacteria on skin

Pure and True

A bit of extra information.  If a drug claim is made on a cleanser or soap, such as antibacterial, antiperspirant, or anti acne, the product is a drug, and the label must list all active ingredients, as is required for all drug products, according to the FDA.  Soaps that are labeled "Pure" or "True" are regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, not FDA, and do not require ingredient labeling.


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