Soaps play an important role as detergents in our daily lives. Detergents, which are the main components of soaps, are blends primarily composed of surfactants. These surfactants are antimicrobials because they’re made of portions that are both hydrophobic (water-repelling) and hydrophilic (water-attracting).

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          When surfactants interact with cell membranes, the hydrophobic portion of the surfactants lodges itself into the hydrophobic cell membrane of pathogenic microbes while the hydrophilic portion of the surfactant interacts with the surrounding water. Hydrophilic molecules can dissolve well in water. This is the key to the success of soap in killing pathogens such as bacteria. The hydrophilic segment of the surfactant, once lodged into the cell membrane of bacteria, allows the molecule to dissolve in the water surrounding the cell. After the surfactant dissolves, the membrane is then destabilized and the cell’s internal components spill out into the surroundings, leading to bacterial cell destruction.

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          So, when washing hands, here are the steps to take. Make sure to scrub your hands for 20 seconds and be sure to get the surfaces underneath your nails. Then, rinse your hands under clean, running water, hot or cold. Finally, make sure to properly dry your hands using a clean towel or air dryer.