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What is the main difference between plain soaps and antibacterial soaps used in the home?
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The main difference is that antibacterial soaps contain a special ingredient for controlling germs. When
washing with an antibacterial soap, a very small amount of antibacterial ingredient is deposited on the
skin that keeps the number of germs at a significantly reduced level for an extended period of time.
Washing with plain soap initially removes some germs, but the germs left on the hands can quickly regrow
and increase in number.
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What germs do antibacterial soaps kill?
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Antibacterial soaps kill or inhibit bacteria that cause odor, skin infections, food poisoning,
intestinal illnesses and other commonly transmitted diseases. Their effectiveness depends on the
antibacterial ingredient, its concentration, its contact time on the skin and the product formulation.
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Who should use antibacterial soaps?
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Antibacterial soaps provide extra protection against bacteria that may cause many common
illnesses. Consumers looking for additional protection before preparing and eating meals, after using the
bathroom, diapering a child, after playing with a pet or when caring for the sick may want to use an
antibacterial soap.
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Are deodorant soaps the same as antibacterial soaps?
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No. A deodorant soap is a cosmetic product intended for washing the body to eliminate odors. A
deodorant soap may or may not contain an ingredient that kills or inhibits the growth of odor-causing
bacteria.
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Why are so many antibacterial soaps on the market now?
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Soaps
intended to kill or inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria have
been marketed since the 1920s. Greater consumer concern over health risks from
germs has generated increased demand for new antibacterial
hand and body wash products.
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