Why you shouldn't wash your hands with antibacterial soaps

A new study suggests that antibacterial hand washes actually make superbugs stronger.

Infectious disease specialists worry that overuse of these soaps may create mutant germs which resist drugs.

Experts also suggest these products may kill off helpful bacteria that our bodies need.

This is because the products leave behind residue which builds up in the environment and lasts a long time.

The study from the University of Oregon found antibiotic-resistance genes in indoor dust from an old building with approximately 25% of the bacteria found coming from human skin.

This is a problem because samples turned up antimicrobial chemicals like triclosan and other antibiotic-resistance genes.

Triclosan is the most commonly used antibacterial ingredient in personal care products. However, just last week the FDA ruled that this ingredient be removed from bar and hand soaps within the next year because it's been linked with a gene that makes bacteria resistant to antibiotics.

Experts suggest that regular soap and water is the best way to prevent spreading germs.

Bonus: it doesn't cost as much as those pricey anti-bacterial soaps!

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