what is the ingredient added to soap that makes it anti-bacterial?
In: Chemistry
Microbiologist here: most soaps (like Dial) that are labeled as “antibacterial” *do* contain a biocide, Benzalkonium Chloride, typically. This compound helps to break up outer lipid layers of microbes. It isn’t an “antibiotic” in the sense that something like penicillin is (which uses chemicals to disrupt the biological machines that form the cells), but it has a similar effect. It also has surfactant activity, which adds to the purpose of the soap – to lift dirt and gunk, including microorganisms from other surfaces like your skin. Of the various compounds that does this, BC is reasonably effective without being terribly toxic to you (and is inexpensive).
To use an analogy, using BC is like hurling a stone at a brick wall (the microbial cell) whereas using an antibiotic like penicillin is like hiring a secret agent bricklayer who is intentionally really bad at building brick walls. Oops your castle wall fell, sorry king!
The chemical is simply added to the soap mixture.
Personally, I don’t use these kinds of soaps, regular soap is good enough, but it’s reasonable to see them in places that are germ-prone, like a hospital or daycare center.
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