According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hands are the body parts that come into contact with bacteria the most. In each centimeter of your hand skin area, there exist approximately 4.6 million bacteria that are harmful to your health. To eliminate bacteria thoroughly, using hand soaps frequently is recommended.
However, the multitude of hand soaps currently available on the market may make the shopping process complicated. So after browsing through various reviews, we compiled our top 10 hand soap products as well as a buying guide at the end to help you with your purchase!
Quick List - Top Hand Soaps
Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day
Non-Drying Hand Soap with Charming Mix of Flowers and Fruits
Dove
Bar Soap with 1/4 Moisturizing Cream for Deep Hydrating Effect
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Using hand soap frequently is strongly suggested, as this good habit could bring you and your family various health benefits.
Washing your hands with water will only remove dirt or contaminants from the surface. In fact, bacteria still continue to multiply and develop. Fortunately, hand soap can help you solve this issue!
As we all know, there are many active ingredients that have excellent antiseptic and antibacterial properties. If washing your hands with water only remove around 10% of bacteria, hand soaps can help eliminate up to 99% harmful bacteria.
Thanks to the powerful bactericidal effect, hand soap can minimize the risk of infection from bacteria or viruses. Especially for children who frequently come into contact with dirt or contaminants, hand soaps can prevent sicknesses such as parasites, digestive disorders, and more.
For adults, using hand soaps before cooking can make the cooking process become more hygienic. The risk of infection from parents to children is also reduced. Most hand soaps do not contain toxics, thus safe for users.
Just like shampoo to your hair, hand soap can help you thoroughly clean your hands and leave them with an enticing aroma. Many hand soaps that are infused with flower, herb, or fruit extracts can be relaxing as well.
However, you should choose your fragrance carefully or opt for an unscented product, since fragrance can trigger some reactions, and certain scents maybe too strong for some people as well. Even unscented soaps will leave you smelling nice and clean, though!
When choosing a hand soap, there are multiple things that should be kept in mind, including its ingredients, the types of hand soap, and so on. Hopefully, this buying guide can give you some tips and make the choosing process much more easily for you.
All hand soaps are formulated somewhat similar to each other but still contain their own unique ingredients. Some hand soaps also consist of harmful chemicals, so you should pay attention to avoid those ingredients.
When shopping for hand soaps, many people are attracted to products labeled as "antibacterial" and assume that they are more efficient in killing harmful germs in comparison to other hand soaps.
However, in accordance to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there has not been any clear scientific proof showing that antibacterial hand soaps are better in reducing the infection risk than other products. Therefore, even if you only have your hands on normal hand soaps, don't worry and keep washing your hands with them!
If you are still looking for some specific ingredients with strong antibacterial properties, then consider ingredients such as benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, or chloroxylenol. Be aware, though, that these ingredients maybe harsh on your skin.
Also, you should avoid products containing triclosan. Triclosan is well-known for its antimicrobial effect, but it has multiple harmful implications on humans' health, including increasing bacteria's resistance to antibiotics, weakening the immune system, and disrupting hormone levels.
There are also hand soaps with natural ingredients that are safe for your health while effective in eliminating germs. Botanical essential oils such as thyme extract have great antiseptic, and sea salt could shorten the lifespan of viruses and naturally kill bacteria as well.
Just like other parts of our bodies, the skin of our hands is easily affected by contaminants and should be treated with care. You should avoid any hand soaps containing harmful chemicals, preservatives, or synthetic dyes. Dyes like red dye just give it an attractive appearance; unfortunately, it's also a common allergen.
Sensitive skin has a weaker protective barrier compared to other skin types, so choosing a product that is hypoallergenic is recommended. Ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium chloride can trigger reactions such as itchiness, eczema, or dermatitis in those with allergies.
Some soaps, especially those containing strong alcohol or chemicals such as sulfate, can leave your hands with an uncomfortable drying feel afterwards.
Therefore, you should look into hydrating ingredients such as vitamin E, moisturizing cream, olive oil, glycerin or aloe vera if you want your hand soap to have a softening, soothing effect as well.
There are various fragrance options for hand soaps, from light and enticing floral aromas (lavender or jasmine) to refreshing scents from fruits or herbal extracts. Fragrances can be relaxing, and are especially helpful if you want to cover up your hand odor.
However, some fragrances can be irritating, especially to sensitive skin. Therefore, you should avoid synthetic fragrance and opt for naturally scented or unscented products. We suggest you to check out more reviews online, or consult with your doctor before making a purchase.
Hand soaps can be generally divided into three types: foam, liquid, and bar soap. Based on your preferences, you can choose your favorite product accordingly.
Liquid soap is the most widely used hand soap due to its ability to eliminate germs effectively. The liquid consistency varies between different products, from thick and gel-like to light and thin. Since it is often stored in a bottle, liquid soap is less exposed to germs compared to open-air bar soaps.
However, liquid soaps can be expensive, and some products may contain harsh chemicals. Some liquid soaps indeed contain emulsifying agents, petroleum and other stabilizers to maintain their gel-like consistency, which can be harmful to humans' health.
When purchasing, you should choose products containing no preservatives, emulsifiers, and other harmful ingredients. And if you are concerned about the environmental-friendliness of liquid hand soaps and their plastic bottles, you can opt for product that is biodegradable or made from recycled plastic!
Bar soap is the most traditional type that has existed for probably centuries! Compared to other types, bar soaps can significantly dry out your skin and damage the protective barrier. Therefore, if you want to use bar soap, find a product formulated with moisturizers and have a low pH level.
However, bar soaps are not protected by bottles and could be affected by germs floating in the air. To ensure the soap's effectiveness, you may want to purchase some containers to store them.
Furthermore, some people are worried that some chemicals used to solidify the soaps can clog pores and lead to acne. There's no scientific proof on this issue, but to avoid such cases, you can choose bar soaps with moisturizers or natural ingredients that are friendly to the skin.
The popularity of foam soaps has increased significantly in recent years, but many are not sure of their advantages compared to other types. According to some studies, foam soaps are more fun to use compared to other types, making them popular with kids.
They are also considered to be more environmentally-friendly than other types, since foam soaps can biodegrade faster and less water-consuming. Research has shown that people who use foam soaps use 16% less water per wash in comparison to those who use the traditional liquid type.
However, their hygienic effect is not as effective as liquid soap. The amount of bubbles from each dollop of a foam soap may make you think that you're using a lot of soap, but you're actually using less.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day Liquid Hand Soap|3 pack, Honeysuckle | ![]() | Non-Drying Hand Soap with Charming Mix of Flowers and Fruits | |
2 | Dial Antibacterial Liquid Hand Soap | ![]() | Hydrating Hand Soap that Eliminates 99.9% Bacteria | |
3 | Dove White Beauty Bar for Deep Moisture |14 bars | ![]() | Bar Soap with 1/4 Moisturizing Cream for Deep Hydrating Effect | |
4 | Puracy Natural Liquid Hand Soap | ![]() | Award-Winning, Natural, Hypoallergenic Hand Soap for Healthy Hands | |
5 | Method Lights Foaming Hand Soap|6 pack | ![]() | Naturally Derived Foaming Hand Soap for Some Washing Fun | |
6 | Everyone Hand Soap|3 pack, Meyer lemon and mandarin | ![]() | Plant Extracts and Essential Oils with No Synthetic Dyes | |
7 | Seventh Generation Hand Wash|8 pack, Free & clean | ![]() | Unscented, Hypoallergenic Product without Harsh Chemicals | |
8 | Softsoap Liquid Hand Soap Aquarium|6 pack | ![]() | Rich Lathering Soap for Gentle Cleansing and Good Hygiene | |
9 | Dial Gold Deodorant Soap|30 bars | ![]() | Antibacterial Soap Bar with Hydrating Formula | |
10 | CleanWell Foaming Hand Soap with Botanical Oils|4 pack, Spearmint lime | ![]() | Patented Formulation of Thyme Oil to Effectively Kill Germs |
With ingredients such as essential oils, aloe vera, and olive oil, this hand soap can thoroughly clean your hands while moisturizing them effectively. The natural ingredients of the product also lessen the chances for potential allergic reactions. As a bonus, it's also cruelty-free!
Many reviewers found that honeysuckle scent charming, and the fact that it is naturally scented is even better! Of course, some people found the scent a bit overpowering.
Formulated with active ingredients that have great antibacterial effects, this hand soap is gentle on skin but tough on germs. In fact, it can kill 99.9% of bacteria encountered in household settings.
Many reviewers loved how this product could clean the bacteria effectively at an affordable price. However, some found their hands a bit dry afterwards. You may want to apply some hand lotion if your hands become too dry after use.
Dove's White Beauty Bar is produced using its classic moisturizing formula with 1/4 moisturizing cream and mild cleansers. Your hands (and body, for that matter!) will be left with a comfortable, hydrating feel afterwards. The cream will help smoothen and rejuvenate your skin as well.
The bar soap is also approved by dermatologists, thus safe for your skin. In fact, some reviewers who had eczema found Dove's Beauty Bar great on their skin. Some found a white residue after using, however.
Powered by plants and other natural ingredients, this cruelty-free hand soap is free of toxins, allergens, and petrochemicals. With added vitamin E, sea salt, and aloe vera, it can hydrate deeply and balance all skin types.
The thick, honey-like consistency can quickly produce an ample amount of foam that last throughout entire cleaning. Furthermore, the formula is developed by doctors, so you know it contains good stuff for your hands!
Many reviewers recommend this hand soap to those with sensitive skin, especially eczema. Nevertheless, some reviewers said that the soap felt a bit thin, and the price was a bit expensive.
This cruelty-free hand soap is naturally formulated without any parabens or phthalates, so you know what you're getting! The addition of glycerin and aloe barbadensis extract will soften and hydrate your hands instead of leaving it dry afterwards.
The formula is biodegradable and it's packaged in 100% recycled plastic, so you know you're doing some good things to the environment just by purchasing. Many people compliment the scents as well, comparing the Sea Minerals fragrance to a fresh sea breeze!
However, some reviewers said that the pumps might get stuck, and the dispenser screw on cap should be tightened more to prevent leaking.
Made with pure essential oils, organic plant extracts, and gentle cleansers, this Everyone Hand Soap is free of parabens and synthetic fragrance. The product contains no synthetic dye and the yellow color of the hand soap actually comes from citrus oil!
It has been verified by the Environmental Working Group to be free of any harsh chemicals that are harmful to our health as well. Nevertheless, some people thought that the scent of the product was either too weak or too strong. We'll let you decide!
With 25 years of innovation, Seventh Generation has developed their hand wash from natural ingredients with no triclosan, chlorine, phthalates, or harsh chemicals for your body. The product is also unscented, so you don't have to worry about getting the wrong odor that you may dislike!
Many reviewers said that the product was safe for kids and also for those with sensitive skin or eczema. However, you cannot buy a refill jug, and the tops won't pop easily sometimes.
For basic cleaning, this hand soap can help you wash away dirt and bacteria. The product also contains light moisturizers that can help smoothen and soften your skin. The scent is fresh and not too overpowering.
Each bottle of this 6 pack has a different aquarium-themed design, so you can decorate your whole house with them or wash your hands frequently to get to the next package! Some people said the soap was too thin, however.
With active ingredients of benzalkonium chloride 0.10%, this soap bar helps you eliminate bacteria effectively. Additionally, the odor protection makes you feel fresh and clean all day long.
Many reviewers, in fact, complimented the bar soap for its odor control. Furthermore, the bar soap won't dry out your skin after washing, since it is formulated to provide creamy, moisture rich lather.
Nevertheless, benzalkonium might be harsh on some people's skin. For people who have ultra sensitive skin, you may want to consult with your dermatologist before using.
Without heavy-duty antibacterial ingredients such as benzalkonium chloride, this hand soap which is infused with botanical oils can still effectively eliminate germs, while still being safe for children, pregnant women, or those with sensitive skin.
Many reviewers said that this product was their favorite antibacterial hand soap. Some added further that their hands felt soft and hydrated after washing. It is cruelty-free and environmentally friendly as well, since the whole thing is biodegradable. However, some people said that the scent was too strong for their taste.
If you are looking for some skin care products that can moisturize and nourish your skin, check out the below links for our suggestions!
No. 1: Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day |Liquid Hand Soap|3 pack, Honeysuckle
No. 2: Dial|Antibacterial Liquid Hand Soap
No. 3: Dove |White Beauty Bar for Deep Moisture |14 bars
No. 4: Puracy|Natural Liquid Hand Soap
No. 5: Method Lights|Foaming Hand Soap|6 pack
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