‘Use antibacterial soap on the sweaty bits’: What experts say about this viral shower tip

Madame Sweat, a content creator, suggests using antibacterial soap on areas prone to excessive sweating like the underarms, groin, and feet, while recommending fragrant soaps for other body parts. Dr. Jagadish Hiremath, a public health intellectual, explains that these areas may benefit from antibacterial soap because they contain more bacteria due to moisture and warmth.

Antibacterial soaps contain ingredients like triclosan or benzalkonium chloride that target and reduce bacterial populations more effectively than regular soaps. However, using antibacterial soap on the entire body can strip the skin of natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and potential skin conditions like eczema. Furthermore, antibacterial soaps can contribute to antibiotic resistance.

Fragrant soaps, on the other hand, can irritate sensitive skin, particularly in areas like the groin and underarms, where the skin is thinner and more susceptible to irritation. For these areas, fragrance-free or hypoallergenic soaps are often recommended to maintain the skin's natural moisture and protect its barrier.