Antibacterial Soap Toxins

Antibacterial Soap Toxins are Worse Than You May Think

Summer is winding down, which leads us to fall and back to school.  Back to school advertising and products seem to be aimed at fighting germs. It is inevitable when putting groups of kids in a classroom, children are bound to get sick. Enter the antibacterial wipes, hand sanitizers and soaps.Antibacterial Soap Toxins

No one wants to be sick, so you hit Target and stock up…but are you keeping yourself and your children healthy? Your skin is your body’s largest organ and it absorbs everything we put ON it as well as IN it.  What does that mean for us when using antibacterial soap?  75% of liquid soaps and 30% of bar soaps contain Triclosan.

What is Tricolsan?

Tricolsan is a chemical that studies have shown actually promotes the growth of bacteria resistance.  Bacteria resistance means it is more difficult for our current antibiotics to do their job when needed. One study showed 80% of people tested had urine that contained Triclosan.

Does it Get Worse?

In addition, Triclosan creates a toxin by the name of Dioxin.  Dioxins are known to disrupt thyroid, the endocrine system, and are labeled as a human carcinogen.   These problems can lead to infertility, artificially advanced early puberty, obesity and cancer.  Children with prolonged exposure have shown to have a higher chance of developing allergies and hay fever as well. Washing your hands or your body with these daily adds up to a lot of toxin exposure we can avoid easily. Triclosan is also toxic to aquatic life, so help our environment by not washing it down the drain.

Can it be avoided?

What’s the solution? The solution is easy. You CAN buy safer hand soaps that do not contain Triclosan.  Studies have shown that scrubbing with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds is as effective at removing dirt and bacteria without toxic consequences. (Children can be taught to sing the song happy birthday 2x for timing purposes).

EWG safer soap options: Safer Soap Options

Other places you may find Triclosan: Toys, clothing, kitchenware, furniture, body washes, toothpastes, and some cosmetics.

For more information regarding common toxins in your products, view our free toxin checklist: Checklist