When it comes to keeping your hands clean and healthy, choosing the right hand soap is crucial. Hand soap not only removes dirt and grime, but it also helps to kill bacteria and viruses that can cause illnesses. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know which hand soap is the best for you. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of hand soap and explore some of the best options on the market.
Types of Hand Soap
There are two main types of hand soap: regular soap and antibacterial soap. Regular soap is designed to remove dirt and grime from your hands. It works by breaking down oils and dirt on the surface of your skin, making it easier to wash away. Regular soap does not contain any antimicrobial agents, so it does not kill bacteria or viruses.
Antibacterial soap, on the other hand, contains added antimicrobial agents that are designed to kill bacteria and viruses. These agents typically include triclosan or benzalkonium chloride. While antibacterial soap may seem like a better choice for keeping your hands clean and healthy, there is some controversy surrounding its use.
The FDA has stated that there is no evidence that antibacterial soap is any more effective at preventing illness than regular soap. In fact, the FDA has banned the use of certain ingredients in antibacterial soaps, including triclosan and triclocarban, due to concerns over their safety and effectiveness.
Best Hand Soaps
- Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Hand Soap – This all-natural hand soap is made with plant-based ingredients and essential oils, making it gentle on your skin while still effectively removing dirt and grime.
- Softsoap Liquid Hand Soap – Softsoap is a trusted brand in the hand soap industry, and their liquid hand soap is a top pick for many. It comes in a variety of scents, including the classic clean scent, as well as seasonal scents like pumpkin spice.
- Dial Antibacterial Liquid Hand Soap – For those who prefer an antibacterial hand soap, Dial is a popular option. It contains benzalkonium chloride to help kill bacteria and viruses, and it comes in a variety of scents.
- Method Foaming Hand Soap – This eco-friendly hand soap is free from harsh chemicals and is made with plant-based ingredients. It comes in a variety of scents and is a great choice for those with sensitive skin.
- Seventh Generation Free & Clean Hand Soap – This hand soap is free from fragrances and dyes, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin. It is also made with plant-based ingredients and is environmentally friendly.
- Puracy Natural Foaming Hand Soap – This foaming hand soap is made with natural ingredients and is gentle on your skin. It comes in a variety of scents and is free from harsh chemicals and toxins.
- Dr. Bronner’s Organic Hand Soap – This all-natural hand soap is made with organic ingredients and essential oils. It is gentle on your skin while still effectively removing dirt and grime.
- J.R. Watkins Foaming Hand Soap – This hand soap is made with natural ingredients and essential oils, making it gentle on your skin. It comes in a variety of scents and is free from harsh chemicals.
- Method Gel Hand Soap – This gel hand soap is made with plant-based ingredients and is free from harsh chemicals. It comes in a variety of scents and is a great choice for those with sensitive skin.
- Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser – While not technically a hand soap, Cetaphil is a gentle cleanser that is often recommended by dermatologists. It is gentle on your skin and can be used on your hands, face, and body.