Every day, we are exposed to thousands of germs. And while all of these germs may not be harmful, some can make us prone to skin infections such as ringworm and athlete’s foot. Since prevention is better than cure, investing in the best antibacterial soaps and using them to wash your hands and body may help prevent infections and keep you and your family safe and healthy. To help you make the right pick, here is our review of some of the best ones available online. Read on to learn more about these antibacterial soaps for body, along with their pros and cons.
Top Picks
10 Best Antibacterial Soaps
1. Best Nourishing: Dove Beauty Bar
The Dove Beauty Bar is one of the soaps recommended by several dermatologists due to its nourishing formula and antibacterial properties. This antibacterial soap for sensitive skin is enriched with 1/4 moisturizing cream to nourish your skin and prevent drying in the long run. It weighs almost five pounds and claims to remove 99% of bacteria, all while being soft and gentle on the skin. In addition, it is suitable for use on all body parts. To learn more about this dermatologist-recommended antibacterial soap for the body, check out this review video.
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Suitable for everyday use
- PETA-certified
- Pleasant fragrance
- Moisturizing formula
Cons
- May not lather well
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 136 positive reviews on Amazon are proof that this product meets customers' expectations.
2. Best Biodegradable: Softsoap Antibacterial Liquid Hand Soap
The antibacterial liquid hand soap by Softsoap comes with biodegradable cleaning ingredients and unique antibacterial formula. Each bottle weighs approximately 15 ounces and contains green tea leaf, ginger root, and mandarin orange extracts. The water-based solution does not contain parabens or phthalates and helps retain the natural moisture levels of your hands. This antibacterial product is available in various fragrances such as fresh citrus, crisp and clean, sparkling pear, white tea, and berry fusion. Check out this review video showcasing a tester’s experience with this product.
Pros
- pH balanced
- Dermatologist-tested
- Recyclable bottle
- Eco-friendly formula
Cons
- May not last for more than a month
3. Best For Athletes: Derma-Nu Antifungal And Antibacterial Soap And Body Wash
If you are an athlete or fitness enthusiast and are prone to ringworm, psoriasis, jock itch, and other fungal infections or skin irritations, this antifungal and antibacterial liquid soap by Derma-Nu Miracle Skin Remedies is for you. This antibacterial soap contains active ingredients such as tea tree oil, aloe vera, spearmint, and menthol to soothe the skin and keep germs and bacteria at bay. The liquid antibacterial body wash, known for its proven efficacy, is also enriched with eucalyptus and spearmint oil to fight bacteria that cause odor. It is suitable for use on all parts of the body and helps keep the skin hydrated.
Pros
- Organic ingredients
- Safe for all skin types
- Gentle on the skin
- Suitable for all body parts
Cons
- Odor may be strong for some
Dove Beauty Bar Best Nourishing | Softsoap Antibacterial Liquid Hand Soap Best Biodegradable | Derma-Nu Antifungal And Antibacterial Soap And Body Wash Best For Athletes | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | Dry | All |
| Dimensions | 13.5 x 8.6 x 3.4 inches | 7 x 6 x 7.8 inches | 2 x 2 x 6 inches |
| Weight | 3.75 Ounces | 0.01 Ounces. | 8 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 136 | 1,226 | 1,603 |
| Price | $22.65 | $11.75 | $19.79 |
4. Best Gentle Formula:Dial Complete Antibacterial Liquid Hand Soap
The Dial liquid hand soap is recommended by many doctors, as it has a gentle and moisturizing formula that protects your hands from 99.9% of bacteria. Further, it cleanses your hands without leaving them dry and dehydrated, making it the ideal antibacterial soap for the bathroom. The doctor-recommended antibacterial soap comes in a set of four, with each bottle containing 325ml of soap. To use this soap efficiently, simply take a small amount of the soap on your palm, lather well, and wash your hands for a minimum of 30 seconds to get rid of harmful bacteria and dirt.
Pros
- Contains 0.13% benzalkonium chloride
- Mild and pleasant scent
- Free of parabens, phthalates, and silicones
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Bottles might not be leak-proof
- Consistency may be a bit watery
5. Best Deodorant: Safeguard Beige Antibacterial Bar Soap
One of the ways to keep yourself healthy is by washing your hands using this soap. The Safeguard Beige Antibacterial Bar Soap comes in a pack of 14, with each soap weighing approximately four pounds. It is also a deodorant soap that leaves your skin feeling fresh, making it an ideal antibacterial soap for gyms as well. Thanks to this antibacterial and biodegradable soap, maintaining clean and healthy skin has now become easier.
Pros
- Retains skin’s moisture
- Helps reduce body odor
- Non-greasy formula
- Suitable for body use
Cons
- May make the skin dry
6. Best Long-Lasting: Solpri Shield Antifungal Soap
Solpri Shield Antifungal Soap is specially formulated for athletes and helps defend against body acne, athlete’s foot, ringworm, rashes, itchy feet, and fungal infections. It contains lemongrass, tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, orange and lime oil extracts, and sunflower oil to soothe itchy and irritated skin and also moisturize the skin. This antibacterial soap made with natural ingredients is available in packs of two and six and lasts for up to 30 uses when used with a loofah or sponge.
Pros
- Triclosan-free
- Paraben-free
- Contains essential oils
- Natural ingredients
- Gentle
Cons
- Some may not like the scent
7. Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Morgan’s Antibacterial Medicated Soap
Make your skin look healthy, moisturized, and clean with the antibacterial soap by Morgan’s. Formulated with sodium tallowate and sodium palm kernelate, this professional-grade soap cleanses your skin and eliminates up to 99.9% of the germs. This antibacterial soap for acne-prone skin also contains vitamin E, glycerin, and menthol to moisturize the skin and provide a cooling and refreshing feel after every use.
Pros
- Gentle on the skin
- Long-lasting effect
- Ideal for acne-prone skin
- Suitable for everyday use
Cons
- Some may not like its smell
- Might be smaller than expected
8. Best For All Skin Types:Kiss My Face Antibacterial Bar Soap
The gentle soap bar by Kiss My Face contains benzalkonium chloride, an antibacterial agent that improves skin health and texture by decreasing the growth of bacteria. In addition to its antibacterial ingredients, the bar also contains sea salt and cold-pressed olive oil to remove dry skin cells and make the skin look soft and hydrated. Moreover, the antibacterial soap with moisturizing benefits has not been infused with artificial ingredients such as fragrances, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Pros
- Rich in antioxidants and vitamins
- Palm oil-free
- Free of parabens, phthalates, SLS, and mineral oil
- Not tested on animals
- Vegan ingredients
- non-GMO certified
Cons
- May not lather well
- Some might find it bigger than expected
9. Best Non-Comedogenic:Cuticura Deep Cleansing Face And Body Soap
Cuticura’s non-comedogenic soap is gentle on the skin, making it suitable for use on the face and body. This antibacterial soap with aloe vera also contains glycerine to soothe the skin and make it feel moisturized. Its antibacterial ingredients eliminate bacteria and other contaminants from the skin and make it feel clean and fresh. Its gentle formula also helps maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier and reduces the appearance of blemishes caused by acne, pollution, and aging.
Pros
- Dermatologist recommended
- Residue-free formula
- Suitable for everyday use
- Paraben-free
Cons
- May be smaller than expected
- Some may not like its smell
10. Best Moisturizing:McKesson Antimicrobial Lotion Soap
The lotion-based soap by McKesson contains chloroxylenol (PCMX), an antibacterial agent that kills any bacteria that comes in contact with it. This cleaner is also infused with aloe vera extracts to keep the hands moisturized even when washed frequently. Moreover, the lotion-based soap comes in a one-gallon bottle and doubles as an antibacterial soap for kitchen, bathroom, and office.
Pros
- pH balanced formula
- Herbal aroma
- Latex-free
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Some may find the smell overpowering
- Some might find the lather less
How To Choose The Right Antibacterial Soap?
Keep these pointers in mind to pick an antibacterial soap that suits you.
- Fragrance: Some of the best antibacterial soaps for body odor come with pleasant fragrances. However, choosing the scent depends upon your tastes and preferences. If you are not used to such fragrances, pick an unscented soap or one with a subtle fragrance.
- Ingredients: Antibacterial soaps contain the goodness of several natural ingredients that offer several benefits, right from moisturizing your skin to making you smell fresh. Regardless of what soap you choose, ensure it is free of all harsh chemicals and ingredients that can be detrimental to your skin and body.
- Soap bar vs. liquid: Antibacterial soaps exist either in the form of a liquid or a bar. If you plan to use a liquid soap, choose one that gives you a creamy lather. For those who prefer a bar of soap, pick one that lasts long and does not dissolve quickly.
, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, says, “While these products may have antibacterial properties, if you have sensitive skin or athlete’s foot or other fungal infections, it is best to consult your dermatologist to confirm the soaps are right for you. You should also do a patch test before using any of these soaps regularly.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are antibacterial soaps used for?
Antibacterial soaps prevent and treat certain bacterial infections and skin irritations by killing pathogens. However, consult a healthcare professional before using them (1).
2. When should I use antibacterial soap?
Antibacterial soap should be used for certain skin concerns when recommended by healthcare professionals. Antibacterial soaps can also be used in hospital settings or places with less hygienic settings to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria.
3. How can I determine if a soap is antibacterial?
A bar of antibacterial soap can be identified by checking the label. If the soap contains antibacterial ingredients, you can see a Drug Facts Label on the package.
4. Can I use antibacterial soap on my face?
Some soaps are specially formulated to be used on the face. To identify such soaps, read the labels. Also, if you wish to use antibacterial soaps on the face, pick those that are mild and gentle on the skin.
5. Are antibacterial soaps good for acne?
Not all antibacterial soaps are suitable for treating acne, as these might leave the skin dry and irritated. However, if a particular antibacterial soap is made to treat acne, you can use it after consulting a dermatologist.
6. Are antibacterial soaps good for armpits?
The reason for armpit odor is the interaction of sweat and bacteria, which is a common skin condition. If the regular soap is not effective in preventing the odor, you may use antibacterial soap for better results.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Amrit S, the author of this article, is an experienced writer and researcher who covers skincare and hair care products extensively. He has done thorough research to list the best antibacterial soaps for the readers. Amrit has also analyzed several reviews and ratings of different antibacterial soaps to make sure his readers are well informed about the products they choose. Moreover, he has included a buying guide to help you understand the products and make an informed decision.
Investing in the best antibacterial soap can protect you and your family from germs. However, choosing one that suits you will involve more than just checking if it helps keep your hands clean and fresh. When buying one, do not forget to consider the key ingredients used and pick a soap that contains organic ingredients and is free of harsh chemicals. Along with active antifungal properties, ensure it is nourishing and moisturizing too. Further, pick an antibacterial soap that lasts long and is gentle on the skin. You may also pick one based on the fragrance.
Infographic: Ingredients To Look For In An Antibacterial Soap For Eczema
Antimicrobial soap promotes good hygiene and stops the spread of infections. So, if you have eczema, it’s crucial to pick an antibacterial soap that is kind to your skin and doesn’t aggravate or dry it out further. Check out the infographic below to learn about some ingredients to look for in an antibacterial soap for eczema. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Antibacterial Soap
https://dermnetnz.org/topics/antibacterial-soap - Babar Ali et al.; (2015); Essential oils used in aromatherapy: A systemic review.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2221169115001033?via%3Dihub
Recommend Links:
- Best Soaps For Oily Skin
- Best Hand Soaps For Ezema
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