Is Bar Soap Covered In Germs?

With so much focus on hygiene and cleanliness, many people wonder: is bar soap covered in germs?

The short answer is yes. Bar soap, like nearly everything else in your home, comes into contact with bacteria. But does that mean it's unsafe? Not at all! In fact, bar soap remains an effective and safe way to cleanse your skin.

"This is the best soap, and I call it a cleansing lotion bar instead because you can get rid of those chemical-filled moisturizers and just use this. I love the Purity (favorite) and Oatmeal Milk & Honey, along with several others. It makes your skin feel buttery soft and gives it a beautiful glow. I'm so grateful for it and it's chemical-free!" - Mari K.

Let’s break down the science and explore why using high-quality, natural options like goat milk soap can be even better for your skin compared to conventional soaps.

Does Bar Soap Harbor Germs?

It's true that bacteria can be found on the surface of bar soap, especially if it's shared between multiple people. However, multiple studies, including research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), show that using bar soap does not transfer harmful bacteria to the skin in a way that causes illness. When you rinse your soap under running water before lathering, any bacteria on the surface is washed away.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), antibacterial soaps are not necessarily more effective at preventing illness than regular soap and water. In fact, plain soap works by mechanically lifting dirt, oils, and bacteria from the skin so they can be rinsed away, without the need for added antibacterial chemicals.

"I have 53 year old skin and have always used expensive skin wash. I wanted to find something natural. This Castile soap leaves my skin soft and clean. I am sold on this and their other soaps forever." - Amie K.

The Problem with Antibacterial Soaps

Many antibacterial soaps contain chemicals such as triclosan and triclocarban, which have been under scrutiny for their potential negative effects on health and the environment.

The FDA has found no significant evidence that these antibacterial agents provide better protection against illness than plain soap and water. Furthermore, overuse of antibacterial agents can contribute to antibiotic resistance, making it harder to treat infections in the future.

5 Reasons Why Goat Milk Soap is a Better Choice

Unlike conventional bar soaps that often contain harsh detergents, synthetic fragrances, and chemical preservatives, goat milk soap offers a more natural and skin-friendly alternative. Here’s why goat milk soap is a superior choice:

1. Naturally Moisturizing:
   Goat milk contains high levels of natural fats and vitamins, particularly vitamin A, which helps nourish and hydrate the skin. Unlike conventional soap that can strip your skin of natural oils, goat milk soap helps maintain your skin’s moisture barrier, making it ideal for sensitive or dry skin.
2. Gentle Yet Effective Cleansing:
   The lactic acid in goat milk naturally helps break down dead skin cells, promoting a gentle exfoliation process. This keeps your skin smooth and fresh without the need for synthetic exfoliants or harsh chemicals.
3. Rich in Beneficial Nutrients:
   Goat milk is packed with essential nutrients, including selenium, which is known to support skin health and may help protect against environmental damage. Conventional soaps often contain chemical additives that provide no such benefits.
4. Free from Harsh Chemicals:
   Many mass-produced soaps contain sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances that can irritate the skin and cause dryness. Goat milk soap, made with natural ingredients, is a safer option for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
5. A More Environmentally Friendly Choice:
   Because goat milk soap is made from natural ingredients and does not contain harmful antibacterial agents, it is a more sustainable choice for the environment. Many commercial soaps contribute to water pollution due to their synthetic chemical content, while natural soap ingredients break down more easily and safely.

"I just love GMS soaps! I purchased Tea Tree because it improves some skin issues that I have. I especially love the fact that it is an environmentally clean soap. No funky chemicals for my body or for the environment. My skin has no scent other than “clean” after I shower." - Marion W.

How to Use Bar Soap Safely

To ensure your bar soap stays as clean as possible, follow these four tips:

• Store your bar soap in a dry, well-ventilated area between uses to prevent excessive moisture buildup.
• Use a soap rest or dish with drainage to avoid pooling water.

"The soap rests are great. Easy to use and the soap lasts longer and smells great. My great nephew (3 yrs) loves the smell of your soap and the soap rest." - Janice P.

• Rinse your bar soap before and after use to remove any debris.
• If you’re sharing your bar soap with family members, consider using a soap saver or washcloth to lather rather than rubbing the bar directly on the skin.

"This handy little item is a must-have for the shower. Pop your bar (or remnants) into the little bag (Soap Saver) and it acts as a loofah to scrub your body and providing suds. It hangs so it allows the soap to dry in between uses and it is easier than using bare hands with soap since it sometimes slips out of your hands. And it's perfect for keeping those last bits of soap contained so you can use it till the very end!" - Denise L.

Yes, bar soap, like almost everything in our daily lives, can come into contact with bacteria. However, studies show that washing with bar soap is still an effective way to cleanse your skin without any increased risk of spreading germs.

The key is to choose a high-quality soap, such as goat milk soap, which provides additional skin benefits without the drawbacks of conventional and antibacterial soaps.

"This has always been my FAVORITE soap scent (Almond) and I plan on ordering more! Thank you for providing such wonderful high quality products!" - Lynn S.

Switching to goat milk soap allows you to enjoy a luxurious, nourishing cleanse while avoiding unnecessary chemicals. If you’re looking for a safe, effective, and natural way to keep your skin healthy, goat milk soap is an excellent choice.