One of my favorite things during the Christmas season was going black Friday shopping. Some years it was with my mom, and others with my friends, but every year we went to the mall to Bath and Body works. I loved just smelling everything!
The hand sanitizers especially were tempting with scents like peach, vanilla sugar cookie and pomegranate. Not only did they smell amazing, but they came in cute travel size bottles!
Unfortunately I now think twice before purchasing a body care product. And hand sanitizer is no longer on my “to buy list.” Most hand sanitizers contain the chemical triclosan.
What’s the Big Deal?
Triclosan is used in toothpaste, soap, mouthwash and pretty much any body care product that boasts antibacterial effects. The problem? Triclosan has NEVER been shown to work as an antibacterial!
Here’s what the FDA has to say about it.
“At this time, the agency does not have evidence that triclosan in antibacterial soaps and body washes provides any benefit over washing with regular soap and water.” FDA
So now that we’ve established it doesn’t necessarily sanitize and kill bad germs, what does it do?
“Animal studies have shown that triclosan alters hormone regulation. Other studies in bacteria have raised the possibility that triclosan contributes to making bacteria resistant to antibiotics.” FDA
It’s important to note that not only did triclosan disrupt hormone regulation in animals, but it was a huge factor in decreasing thyroid hormones. It’s estimated that 12 million Americans have a thyroid problem.
I like your site & many of your recipes. Do you give out the recipe for the Thieves Hand Sanitizing Spray? I would LOVE to make this for my family & feel better knowing exactly what’s in it.
Thank you!!
Ronda
Hi Ronda! The link to the recipe is at the bottom of the post. I also have a quicker version that uses essential oils you can check out here. Thanks for the comment! https://www.theherbalspoon.com/2015/09/diy-hand-sanitizer-with-essential-oils.html