Antibacterial SoapDial Antibacterial Soap advertises that it is "more than 10 times more effective at killing disease-causing germs than regular liquid hand soaps" (1). For the average consumer, soap that can kill more germs seems to be more effective. But is stronger antibacterial soap always better? Various studies suggest that antibacterial soaps can be harmful and lead to problems like superbugs, dry skin, and hand eczema. According to current research, antibacterial soaps are no better than traditional soaps when it comes to household use. Antibacterial cleaning agents have quickly become a popular alternative to traditional cleaning products. These soaps, shampoos, dish detergents, and toothpastes are marketed as antibacterial products and have become popular household items. In fact, 75% of liquid soaps and 30% of bar soaps on the market are considered antibacterial(2). These antibacterial products are so popular because they are intended to decrease bacteria. They kill more germs than regular soap. This means they should reduce the risk of getting sick. As Janet Donohue of www.germsmart.com suggests, "they kill germs, breaking the cycle of infection"(3). In addition to killing germs, some antibacterial products are easier to use than traditional soap and water. For example, there are many hand sanitizers that don't require water. A user simply applies the soap to their hands and the dirt “disappears.” These products seem like magic, but as we know, there is no such thing as magic in science. To fully understand how antibacterial products work, you need to learn how soap works. Soap is made up of an acid and a base(4). The acid known as triglycerides mixes with the sodium water base... middle of paper ...... rather than trying to eliminate bacteria, we should work to limit our exposure to too many harmful bacteria with traditional soaps, shampoos and conditioners. dishwashing detergents and toothpaste. Internet sources: 1) How Stuff Works site, this site gives answers to simple scientific questions. http://www.howstuffworks.com/question692.htm2) Health on the OZ site, http://www. healthatoz.com/atoz/healthupdate/alert09192000.html3)US Health and Human Services, this is a copy of the report given on antibioticshttp://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/NEW00736.html4) , Germ Smart Site, http://www.germsmart.com/5), Doctors Guide, http://www.pslgroup.com/dg/F3d6a.htm6) Nurse Week Article, http://www. nurseweek.com/features /98-10/soap.html7) MSNBC Report, Buissness Journal, http://msnbc.msn.com/news/608082.asp?cp1=18) Dial Soap Site, http://www. dialsoap.com/