In name and theory, the term “antibacterial” seems like a smart choice to prevent illness and inhibit bacterial growth, but these products contain a chemical antimicrobial called Triclosan. So what’s the big deal? Well…
Triclosan was originally created for medical uses and sterilization but, now that it has become outrageously common and “household”, consumers need to know that it is actually linked to health issues, including antibiotic resistance, allergy susceptibility and severe skin irritations (not to mention the destruction of fragile aquatic ecosystems!). Seems rather contradictory, doesn’t it? While you are trying to keep germs and illnesses at bay, you are actually building a resistance to antibiotics and decreasing their effectiveness should you ever truly need them.
Triclosan is commonly found in soaps, deodorants, toothpastes, cosmetics, shampoos, disinfectants and even fabrics (also marketed as “Microban” or “Biofresh”). What I also find disturbing is that Triclosan actually “reacts” with chlorinated water and produces a high level of chloroform… yes, I said chloroform…. classified, by the EPA, as a probable human carcinogen.
Another scary fact? It literally accumulates in our bodies, and this is the reason we build the resistance to antibiotics.
The reality is simply that the harm far outweighs the benefit. In fact, there is little evidence to support the use of antibacterials for home or personal use in the prevention of viruses or illnesses.
So why buy antibacterial products? Simply put, I cannot think of a single reason…
Disclosure Policy
Thank you! I knew that using them was not good, just wasn’t sure of all the reasons.
Marisa – you’re welcome!… and it’s quite a scary list of reasons, isn’t it?!?
Megan emailed to ask about “alcohol-based hand sanitizers”… here is my reply, if others are interested! –
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers (the kind that don’t require water) are fine. It’s the others (soaps, shampoos, toothpastes) that require water or use Triclosan as an ingredient (fabrics, deodorants) that should be avoided at all costs!
.-= Doreen / Mom Goes Green´s last blog ..Simple health tip: Say NO to antibacterial products! =-.
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