The 11 Best Antibacterial Soaps Of 2024 To Buy Right Now
Keep your skin healthy and infection-free with these effective cleansing bars!
Dr. Schwarzburg is a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City. He is an Ivy League school graduate with 7 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology and regenerative medicine.
His authority is widely recognized, and his expert opinion has been sought by many prestigious publications, including Forbes, Glamour, Good Morning America, ABC News, and many others.
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Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
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Experience: 11 yearsRamona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.
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Having the best antibacterial soap in your bathroom is essential to your skin health. These soaps get rid of body odor, remove soil, oil, and dirt, and most importantly, protect your body from bacteria. The perfect antibacterial soaps retain the moisture in your skin, stopping it from drying out quickly like regular soaps. If you haven’t bought one, it’s time you do so! Check out our list of antibacterial soaps to keep your skin healthy and germ-free. A few of these are also dermatologist-tested for users with sensitive skin types .Scroll down to take a look at what they are!
In This Article
The 11 Best Antibacterial Soaps Of 2024
1. Best Overall:Defense Soap
This soap contains natural tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil that are clinically-proven for their effectiveness against bacteria and germs. It does not harm the natural barrier of your skin. It exfoliates dead skin cells, controls sebum production, and eliminates excess oil build-up. It is great for those who have rashes, and itchy, irritated skin. The soap offers protection from skin infections and common skin conditions like folliculitis.
Dr. Schwarzburg, a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City, suggests, “Always look out for the types of essential oils in your products. While they may seem natural and healthy, some may cause skin irritation on people with sensitive skin.”
Note: Avoid this soap if you are allergic to tea tree oil or essential oils.
Pros
- Clinically proven
- Hypoallergenic
- Safe scents
- Fragrance-free
- Dye-free
- Petrochemical-free
- SLS-free
- Alcohol-free
Cons
- Tea tree oil may cause dryness.
Pro Tip2. Best Chemical-Free:Provon Antimicrobial Lotion Soap
The Provon Antimicrobial Lotion Soap is an antimicrobial lotion soap with a good cleansing performance. It is designed to produce a moisture-rich creamy lather that cleanses the skin without drying it out and offers smooth skin. This composition packed with vegan ingredients is perfect for keeping your skin clean and hydrated at the same time. It’s designed with antibacterial deodorant protection technology, which removes odor-causing germs and also eliminates bacteria during every wash. This body care soap protects the skin and prevents the development of foul odor. It has a pleasant fragrance that keeps you feeling clean and fresh for a long time.
Pros
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Kills bacteria
- Kills odor
- Pleasant fragrance
- Affordable
Cons
- None
"This body wash soothes my skin while deep cleaning it. It does not leave my skin feeling dry. I like its creamy lather that provides good coverage to my skin. The formula also eliminates bad odor and protects my skin from harmful bacteria."
Trivia3. Best Plesant- Fragrance:Derma Nu’s Anti-Fungal Therapeutic Soap And Body Wash
The Derma Nu’s Anti-Fungal Therapeutic Soap And Body Wash fights those annoying germs. An active lifestyle, whether at the gym, at work, or just going about your daily business, may lead to the formation of an unpleasant foul odor. This formula offers all-day foot odor protection. This antimicrobial soap & body wash helps you get healthy skin while leaving you smelling great, thanks to its unique combination of essential oils. This soap with antibacterial agents and a proprietary combination of essential oils has been tested and clinically-proven to reduce itching, scratching, dryness, and inflammation of the skin. The powerful ingredients such as tea tree, peppermint, menthol, wintergreen, eucalyptus, and spearmint oil work together and offer a soothing experience for irritated skin. The blend of tea tree oil and mint helps wash away bacteria from the inflamed skin. This hygienic body cleanser has a relaxing scent and is good for all skin types. This body wash bottle is the perfect size for travel.
Pros
- Soothes dry, itchy skin
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Dye-free
- Petrochemical-free
- SLS-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 11,444 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
| Defense Soap Best Overall | Provon Antimicrobial Lotion Soap Best Chemical-Free | Derma Nu's Anti-Fungal Therapeutic Soap And Body Wash Best Plesant- Fragrance | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Sensitive | All | All |
| Dimensions | 5 x 5 x 5 inches | - | 2 x 2 x 6 inches |
| Weight | 9.14 Ounces | - | 8 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 3,057 | - | 11,444 |
| Price | $29.99 | $9.23 | $17.87 |
4. Best Dermatologist-Tested Formula:Hibiclens Antimicrobial Liquid Soap
This is an antibacterial liquid soap that claims to clear skin irritation and infections caused by bacteria and germs. It protects your skin and is extremely gentle. The anti-infective properties are very effective for maintaining hand hygiene and skin cleansing. It works well against body acne and skin infections. It is a great soap for hygiene-conscious individuals.
Dr. Schwarzburg, a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City, says, “If you see ingredients that you don’t recognize, it is best to either consult with your dermatologist or look up the ingredient to make sure that it won’t irritate your skin.”
Note: Consult a doctor before using this soap as it contains chlorhexidine that might cause allergic reactions.
Pros
- Recommended by pharmacists
- Kill germs in 24 hours
- Kills 99% germs
- Dermatologically tested
- Works for acne and fungal infections
Cons
- May spill
Quick TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 8,282 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
5. Best For Sensitive Skin:Cetaphil Antibacterial Gentle Cleansing Bar
Cetaphil is one of the most popular and widely trusted skin care brands. This soap is specially made for those with dry and sensitive skin. This professional-grade product has a non-soap formula and is milder than any other antibacterial soap which makes it perfect for delicate skin. This germ-fighting soap cleans your skin, provides protection against harmful bacteria, and keeps it hydrated. It is dermatologist-recommended and suitable for all skin types, and can also be used on rosacea and eczema-prone skin. It strengthens the skin’s defense power and prevents any unwanted skin conditions like body acne. Click here to check out this YouTuber’s unbiased review of this clinically-proven product.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Detergent-free
- Clinically-tested
- Soap-free
- Mild
- Pleasant fragrance
- Affordable
- Dermatologist- tested
Cons
- The fragrance can be an issue for some.
"This Cetaphil bar lathers well and removes dirt and pollutants from my skin. It does not irritate my skin or leave it excessively dry. I find its scent pleasant and mild. My skin feels clean and supple after washing it with this soap bar. It does not weaken my skin barrier like other soaps."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 13,532 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
6. Best Hydrating:Dial Professional Gold Antibacterial Liquid Hand Soap
The Dial Gold Antibacterial Liquid Hand Soap eliminates 99.9% of germs that you get on your hands from public places. Every time you wash, it delivers a broad range of antibacterial action. Plus, it contains skin conditioning agents that keep your hands soft and smooth. This family-friendly hygienic soap is light on the skin and efficient against gram-positive bacteria, gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and mold. It reduces flaky skin and restores the natural moisture barrier. This professional-grade soap is designed for regular hand washing and comes in biodegradable and recyclable packaging.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Doctor-recommended
- Non-drying
- Kills germs instantly
- Biodegradable
Cons
- None
"This soap removes dirt, oil, and pollutants from my skin instantly without leaving it too dry. It lathers well. Only a small amount of the soap is enough to deep clean my hands. It comes in a big bottle which is going to last me months."
7. Best For All Day Freshness:Dial Antibacterial Deodorant Soap (Lavender & Twilight Jasmine)
This antibacterial soap kills odor-causing bacteria to keep you smelling fresh all day long. The relaxing fragrance of lavender and the mood-boosting fragrance of twilight jasmine provide an indulging experience every time you use the soap. Its fresh scent helps mask the armpit odor. Dr. Schwarzburg, a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City, suggests, “An antiperspirant after you use this product will help keep your smelling fresh even once the product wears off.” Here’s a personal review and tester’s experience video to help you get a better understanding of the product.
Pros
- Contains benzalkonium chloride
- All-day odor-control
- Dermatologically-approved
Cons
- May make the skin dry
"This Dial soap keeps me smelling nice even after a sweaty day. It creates a creamy lather that applies smoothly to my skin and leaves it clean. My skin feels smooth and soft after using this. The soapy foam also washes off easily from my skin without causing buildup."
8. Best Non-Drying:Solpri Shield Antifungal Soap Bar
This soap is infused with the power of five essential oils like lemongrass, eucalyptus, sweet orange, lime, and tea tree that are clinically-proven for their antibacterial action. They effectively clean your skin while providing skin health protection. Its potent antimicrobial property washes away bacteria and fungus to protect the skin against common concerns like ringworm, athlete’s foot, facial acne, itchy feet, etc. In addition, it has a natural emollient, vegetable glycerin that provides intense moisturization to your skin. The soap helps create a protective barrier on the skin and may reduce foul odor.
Dr. Schwarzburg, a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City, says, “If you do have fungus, you should see a dermatologist or podiatrist to make sure that it is effectively removed, as fungus has the tendency to spread.”
Pros
- Non-drying
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Triclosan-free
- Fragrance-free
- Value for money
Cons
- None
9. Best With Organic Ingredients:Nutri-Logics Colloidal Silver Soap
This is an extra-strength no-residue soap that claims to keep germs and bacteria away from your skin. It contains honeysuckle and lemon peel extracts and essential oils that help in deep cleansing without irritating your skin. The bar is the perfect size for travel purposes.
Pros
- Organic ingredients
- No synthetic fragrance
- No colorants
- No preservatives
Cons
- None
"The soap is gentle and feels soothing. It clarifies my skin and leaves it looking healthy. The soap has a refreshing scent that lifts my mood instantly. I like that it creates a creamy lather that covers my skin entirely. The lather washes away too easily and never feels sticky on my skin."
10. Best Skin Conditioning Formula:Safeguard Deodorant Soap White with Aloe
This antibacterial soap is designed as the best defense against germs for your skin. This dermatologist-approved soap is suitable for all skin types and can be used by people of all ages. This professional-grade soap contains aloe vera extracts and has skin conditioning effects. It does not make your skin excessively dry.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- None
11. Best All Skin Types – Dettol Anti-Bacterial Bar Soap
The Dettol Anti-Bacterial Bar Soap is an anti-bacterial bar soap that provides protection against germs also while nourishing your skin simultaneously. This professional-grade soap is formulated with the trusted Dettol anti-bacterial protection to help you stay safe from a range of germs, including E. coli, salmonella, and staphylococcus. This soap is made of 80% naturally derived plant-based ingredients and glycerine that helps to add moisture and keeps your skin healthy. Also, this soap is IMA and expert-recommended .
Pros
- Affordable
- Dermatologically tested
- Doctor-recommended
- Plant-based ingredients
- Suitable for all skin types
- Lightly scented
Cons
- None
"This Dettol soap cleans my skin effectively. My skin feels moisturized after washing it with this. I also like its soothing scent, which is not overwhelming. It also eliminates bacterial buildup and prevents itchiness. I love that this soap is gentle, and I can use it on my face."
A great variety of antibacterial soaps are available in the market with different formulas. To get the best result, you have to make a clear choice among the antibacterial soaps offered by various brands. These soaps can cause dryness and irritation on the skin if used excessively. So, we provide a brief buying guide to help you select the best antibacterial soaps for your body.
Points To Consider Before Buying Antibacterial Soap
- Ingredients To Opt For
You can look out for organic ingredients in antibacterial soaps such as natural tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, olive oil, benzalkonium chloride, lime, and glycerin. These ingredients help in killing bad bacteria and offer intense moisturization to your skin. Also, choosing soaps that are made with clinically-proven active ingredients can give effective results.
- Ingredients To Avoid
The most harmful ingredients that must be avoided are parabens, sulfates, triclosan, and any synthetic fragrance. You should also avoid drying soaps as they can affect your skin badly. If you are allergic to essential oils, then you should also avoid soaps with essential oils like rose, grapefruit, and lavender. It is important to perform a patch test if you are using any new antibacterial soap for the first time.
- Dermatologist Approved
Antibacterial soaps contain antibacterial and antiseptic properties with natural ingredients for the purpose of bacteria elimination from your skin. So, it would be a smart choice to choose dermatologically-tested, professional-grade and doctor-recommended antibacterial soaps that can protect you from commonly transmitted bacteria and help prevent illnesses.
People with skin conditions should consult their dermatologist before committing to a particular antibacterial soap.
- Skin Type
Consider your skin type before choosing the ideal antibacterial soap. Choosing the wrong soap can clog your skin pores and have negative effects on your skin. If your skin is normal, go for soaps with ingredients like avocado oil, chamomile oil, or cocoa butter. For oily skin, unless you are allergic, you can go for soaps that include salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, oatmeal, sea salt, tea tree oil, and aloe vera.
If you have dry skin, go with the soaps that include glycerin, cocoa butter, coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, and aloe vera. For sensitive skin, choose expert-recommended soaps and avoid soaps with artificial fragrances, alcohol, and sulfates. It is advised to choose soaps formulated with toxin-free ingredients for sensitive skin and always perform a patch test. It is safer to opt for tested soaps for sensitive skin. Also, choosing from the ones with positive reviewers’ experience or people’s experience can be beneficial.
This was our list of the top-rated antibacterial soaps. If you are wondering why to switch to these soaps, scroll down.
Benefits Of Using Antibacterial Soap Over Normal Soap
There are several benefits of using an antibacterial soap over any other normal soap bar. These are:
- It Helps Prevent Bacterial Infection
Antibacterial soaps contain ingredients that are meant to prevent bacterial growth. This helps to prevent skin issues caused by disease-causing bacteria and reduces the risk of developing any common skin condition like a fungal infection. Also, when you clean your hands with antibacterial soap, it prevents the transfer of germs and bacteria to your mouth. It also prevents/controls acne and pimples by killing bacterial growth.
- It Prevents Excessive Dryness
Antibacterial ingredients can be drying. However, to counter that, antibacterial soaps often contain hydrating ingredients, such as oils, that keep your skin soft. These hydrating ingredients have a healing property that soothes inflamed skin. Additionally, the soap forms a protective barrier on the skin to keep it hydrated.
- It Won’t Clog Your Skin Pores
This is because most of the antibacterial soaps contain medical-grade and non-comedogenic ingredients that keep the skin pores clean and prevent clogging.
If you are wondering why some soaps are antibacterial while others are not, the answer is quite simple. The ingredients in antibacterial soaps are different from those in any other commercially available soap. These ingredients or chemicals are claimed to prevent the growth of bacteria.
However, the US Food And Drug Administration (FDA) states that any soap is good to keep the germs and bacteria away from your skin (1). Some antibacterial soaps are meant for specific skin conditions, such as body acne. Hence, in such cases, using antibacterial soaps often helps you deal with the skin issue. You can opt for soaps that have a pH-balanced formula to improve your skin health.
However, if it is just about keeping your skin clean, any regular soap is good enough. Whether you are using regular soap or antibacterial soap, as long as you maintain personal hygiene, you have no cause for worry.
Infographic: How Do You Find The Best Antibacterial Soap For Your Skin Type?
Choosing the right soap for your specific skin type is essential to keep any skin issues at bay. Using the wrong soap might strip your skin of its natural oils or clog pores. There are multiple products on the market, each promising to be the best for you. We have put together a guide that will help you make the right choice. Check it out in the infographic below! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Soap bars are a traditional way of cleansing your body. They help to clean your body by removing dirt and impurities. Unlike regular soaps, antibacterial soaps can also eliminate bacteria on the skin besides removing impurities. For germ protection, the Defense Soap proves ideal with clinical backing. The Cetaphil Antibacterial Gentle Cleansing Bar is perfect for dry and sensitive skin. Opt for the Solpri Shield Antifungal Soap Bar if you are looking for a soap with powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties. These soaps prevent excessive dryness and bacterial infections and unclog your pores. So it would be best to invest in such soaps that keep your skin bacteria-free and fresh. However, consider soaps that are free from harmful chemicals and avoid soaps that make your skin dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is antibacterial soap good for acne?
Yes, there are antibacterial soaps available for acne that can help heal them fast.
Is it OK to use antibacterial soap on your face?
Yes, only if it is recommended for the face and the body.
When and why should you use antibacterial soap?
If your doctor has recommended it for a specific skin condition or if you need an antibacterial soap for any specific skin issue, you can use it.
What is the difference between soap and antibacterial soap?
Antibacterial soaps work better at eliminating harmful germs than regular soaps. They are also more beneficial in treating sensitive skin conditions like dermatitis and rosacea. Antibacterial soaps mostly contain ingredients that are not included in regular soaps, such as benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, and chloroxylenol.
How long should I use antibacterial soap?
Antibacterial soaps with safe and mostly organic ingredients can be used daily. However, antibacterial soaps with chemical formulas are preferable only during times of higher risk. Regular soaps can work well for daily washing.
Is antibacterial soap safe during pregnancy?
No. It is recommended to avoid antibacterial soaps if you are expecting. Some of these soaps contain benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, and chloroxylenol which are not suitable for pregnant people.
Can antibacterial soap treat and cure an infection?
Yes, antibacterial soap can effectively treat and cure an infection. While there is not enough evidence claiming antibacterial soaps can work more efficiently than regular soaps in treating infections, they can prevent infections and illness better with judicious use.
Is using an antibacterial soap okay on tattoos?
Yes, it is highly recommended to use an antibacterial soap on your tattoos. Tattoos can be extremely vulnerable to stubborn bacteria and infections as they are open wounds. Keeping your tattoos clean with antibacterial soaps is a protective measure that keeps your skin healthy.
What is the best unscented antibacterial soap?
The best unscented antibacterial soap is the Solpri Shield Antifungal Soap Bar which is enriched with essential oils that help eliminate unwanted bacteria and fungal deposits.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Shiboli Chakraborti, the author of this article, is a certified skin care coach who loves to try out various skin care products. She researched many products thoroughly and read several user reviews online to collate this list of the best antibacterial soaps. These soaps are the best way to protect your skin from bacterial infections and moisturize the skin. They also cleanse the skin effectively and keep you smelling fresh all day long.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
- Food and Drug Administration. “Antibacterial Soap? You Can Skip It—Use Plain Soap and Water.” (2017). https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/antibacterial-soap-you-can-skip-it-use-plain-soap-and-water
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