How Soap Cleans
Soap cleans hands by encapsulating dirt, oil or grease in a miniature bubble called a micelle. Soap molecules are both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water repelling), which allows the micelles to form. World of Molecules describes the soap molecule as having a nonpolar, hydrophobic hydrocarbon chain at one end and a polar, hydrophilic oxygen and sodium structure at the opposite end. When soap and water combine with the dirt or grease on hands, the soap molecule acts as a bridge between the insoluble dirt particles and the water. The soap molecules surround the dirt particles in micelles, with the hydrophobic end of the soap molecule on the inside of the micelle and the hydrophilic end on the outside, suspending the dirt particle in water. The water then rinses away the suspended particles, leaving the hands clean.
Antibacterial Soaps
Hands carry bacteria and other germs, which enter the body when you touch your hands to your mouth, nose or eyes, explains Harvard Medical School Family Health Center. Plain soap and water--or even plain tapwater with no soap--effectively remove infectious agents from hands. Antibacterial soaps are no more effective than plain soap, according to Harvard Medical School, and may cause allergic reactions. Antibacterial additives also have the potential of creating resistant bacteria, says the Mayo Clinic. Cool or lukewarm water is as effective as hot water at cleaning hands but is less damaging to the skin.
Proper Handwashing Technique
Effective handwashing requires no special equipment, but you should use the proper technique. The Mayo Clinic recommends wetting hands under running water, then applying enough soap to create a rich lather. Rub hands vigorously for at least 20 seconds, taking care to wash all parts of your hands, including the backs, wrists and under the nails. Avoid scrubbing too hard because that may damage the skin and allow bacteria to enter the body. Rinse your hands well under running water and dry thoroughly with a clean towel, a paper towel or under an air dryer. Use a towel to turn off the faucet. Wash your hands before preparing food or eating, removing or inserting contact lenses, touching an injured or ill person or administering medications. Always wash your hands after using the toilet or changing a diaper, preparing food (especially when touching raw meat or poultry), or touching a sick or injured person. Remember to wash your hands whenever you blow your nose, cough or sneeze.
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