Are You a Germ Killer?
By the looks of most bathrooms in this country these days, seems like everyone is using antibacterial soaps.
Advertising teaches us to fear germs. So they can sell us antibacterial soap. It’s even marketed as a preventive measure against colds and flu. Only problem is colds and flu are viral and anti-bacterial products have no effect.
The truth is, antibacterial soaps contain harmful carcinogens and are no more effective in killing germs than regular soap!
The U.S. Center for Disease Control agrees. It recommends that the most effective way to reduce the spread of infectious disease is washing our hands. But anti-bacterial soaps are not necessary. Neither is scalding hot water. Our hands can’t withstand the temperatures that would be necessary to kill germs with heat.
There is a ‘right’ way to wash your hands. Experts recommend that you use a combination of soap and warm water and rub all surfaces of the hands for at least 20 seconds, especially under your fingernails. The soap and scrubbing action do the trick.
Patient Login
Dr. Rob Asks...