A recent article in commondreams.org lists recent studies about the toxicity of the active ingredient, Triclosan which is used in antibacterial soaps.  

“Antibacterial Agent no Better Than Soap & Water and its Toxic” 

“Triclosan is an antibacterial agent used in many everyday products including liquid hand soap, dishwashing detergent, mattresses, shower curtains, bathtubs, and cutting boards.  Federal agencies continue to allow its use despite the fact it may be toxic to the developing fetus and child, and pollutes mothers breast milk.”

“Triclosan has been linked to cancer in lab animals, has been targeted for removal from some stores in Europe for its health and environmental risks and the American Medical Association recommends against its use in the home…”

 Read more about it here:

So what should you use when you wash your hands?  Plain soap and water is best. 

Pesticides Found in Soap, Toothpaste and Toys