The dangers of antiseptic bath soap for skin health

Many people use antibacterial and antiseptic soaps for bathing because they are considered cleaner and able to repel germs that stick to the skin. However, did you know that there is a danger lurking from using antiseptic soap for bathing?

Antiseptic soap can make bacteria resistant

Antibacterial and antiseptic soaps claim to remove adhering bacteria. This could be true. However, using antiseptic soap too often can actually make the bacteria immune and harder to get rid of.

People who have complaints of skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis, should also avoid using antiseptic soap for bathing. This is because the use of antiseptic soap tends to irritate the skin, making the skin even drier.

The dangers of using antiseptic soap for bathing

Apart from making the bacteria immune, there are also several other dangers that arise on the skin due to the use of antiseptic soap for bathing.

The presence of triclosan in antiseptic and antibacterial soap makes them different from ordinary soap. This content can actually cause problems on the skin.

Some of the side effects that antiseptic soap can have on your skin include:

1. The skin becomes dry and rough

One of the dangers to the skin when using antiseptic soap in the shower is that it makes it dry and rough.

This is due to the triclosan content which reduces oil on the skin, so that the skin feels rough, itchy, and looks red.

2. Increases the risk of allergies

Apart from dryness, another danger of antiseptic soap on the skin when used for regular bathing is allergies. The triclosan compound is again the suspect because it is suspected of having side effects on the human immune system.

If triclosan meets bacteria, mutations will occur and can inhibit the immune system from fighting the bacteria. Therefore, it is possible that there will be an allergic reaction that is caused when you frequently use antibacterial soap for bathing.

3. Can change hormones

One of the side effects of antiseptic soap is hormonal changes.

A study in 2010 revealed an increase in testosterone production in the body against triclosan exposure.

This has been demonstrated through experiments with animals given the triclosan compound. The animal then experiences a testosterone imbalance.

However, several other studies are still needed to determine the dangers of antiseptics on the skin when used for regular bathing. Does it give a very bad impact to endanger lives or not.

Regular soap is better for many skin types

According to the U.S Food and Drug Administration, there is not enough data to show that antiseptic soap is better at preventing disease than regular soap.

That is why, choosing regular soap with water when bathing and washing your hands is a wise choice so that you avoid the dangers of antiseptic soap that can damage the skin.

In order not to make the wrong choice and cause skin problems, there are several things you need to pay attention to when choosing soap for bathing, including:

• Choose a soap that does not contain alcohol and is antibacterial. Both have the potential to make your skin dry, itchy easily, and too tight.
• Use mild soap or shower gel containing added oil or fat.
• Don't forget to see if there is any writing moisturizing, hypoallergenic , or made for sensitive skin as an alternative choice according to skin type.

Most people think that antibacterial and antiseptic soaps can kill germs when used regularly. In fact, antiseptic soap can actually be dangerous for your skin condition.

That is why, choose regular soap. If you are still not sure, consult with your doctor to determine the right soap for your skin type.

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