Back to Basics: Benefits of Soap & Water

Thinking about switching to antibacterial hand soap? Don’t change your washing routine just yet.   

Where’s the Science?

You might have heard that antibacterial soap is better, but according to the FDA, there is not enough science to prove that antibacterial products kill more germs than traditional soaps do. Given limited evidence showing significant protection from illness and disease, the FDA recommends that you stick to your trusty soap and water.

An Oldie but a Goodie  

There’s a reason soap has been around for almost 5,000 years--it just works!  Here’s how: hand soaps contain hard-working ingredients called surfactants, which are naturally attracted to the outer layer of a virus. When surfactants encounter viruses, they swoop in like superheroes to attack. Since viruses cling tightly to our hands, water alone cannot remove them; however, if you combine soap, water, and 20 seconds of scrubbing, you can ensure clean, safe hands.

Less is More!

Let’s talk about Triclosan, a harmful chemical often found in antibacterial soaps. According to the FDA, soaps containing Triclosan can remove natural oils in the skin, making your hands feel extremely dry. If that’s not bad enough, the harsh chemicals in antibacterial soaps have been linked to reduced immunity, and increases in allergies, infertility, and cancer. 

Clean up with Gelo 

Gelo Hand Soap contains concentrated cleansers that provide the deep, nourishing clean you need. A basic soap and water wash is perfectly safe and reliable, so next time you’re stocking up on hand soap, look for a more natural solution.