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Many antibacterial soaps contain the chemical triclosan, which can alter hormone regulation and may make bacteria resistant to antibiotics with long-term use. And wouldn’t you know, there’s no evidence that triclosan kills more germs than a good soap-and-water scrubbing anyway. Check the labels on soaps, hand sanitizers, OTC drugs, toothpaste and cosmetics to make sure they don’t contain this ingredient. If you want something antibacterial, opt for an alcohol-based sanitizer—but use it sparingly to keep from drying out your skin.
MORE: Why Some States Are Banning Triclosan
