Antibacterial soap under the microscope

This Tuesday, April 30, 2013, photo, shows Dawn Ultra antibacterial soap in a kitchen Tuesday in Chicago. (AP Photo/Kiichiro Sato)

According to the American Food and Drug Administration, there is no evidence that antibacterial soaps are any more effective than plain soap and water.

In fact, the FDA says animal studies suggest that the active ingredient in the antibacterial soaps may play a role in antibiotic resistance.

Now, manufacturers will have to conduct clinical trials to prove that their produces have benefit and are safe for long-term use.  Any soap labeled antibacterial or antimicrobial is subject to review.

The chemicals in the antibacterial soaps that cause pose a risk are Tricolsan and Triclocarban.

The proposed rules are open to input from the public and manufacturers before they become finalized.