FDA Bans Ingredients In Anti-Bacterial Soaps, Washes

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — More than a dozen chemicals used in anti-bacterial soaps and washes are being banned by the FDA, which said there is no proof that they are safe or prevent the spread of germs.

Many companies have already started removing these ingredients -- including triclosan, most commonly found in liquid soaps, and triclocarban, which is found in bar soaps -- from their products.

"Consumers may think antibacterial washes are more effective at preventing the spread of germs, but we have no scientific evidence that they are any better than plain soap and water," the FDA's Janet Woodcock said in a statement. "In fact, some data suggest that antibacterial ingredients may do more harm than good over the long-term."

The ruling, however, does not affect consumer hand sanitizers or wipes, or antibacterial products used in health care settings.