10 Best Soap To Use After Surgery

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Introduction: The Importance of Proper Post-Operative Skincare

When undergoing surgery, it’s not uncommon for patients to be discharged from the hospital before their wounds have fully healed. To minimize the risk of infection during the healing process, it is essential to follow your surgeon’s instructions for post-operative skincare, including the proper way to wash a surgical incision. Choosing the right soap after surgery plays a vital role in maintaining cleanliness and preventing infection.

In this article, I will discuss the ten best soaps to use after surgery, along with their pros and cons, to help you make an informed decision. Always remember, consulting with your doctor is crucial before purchasing any antibacterial soap for use after surgery.

What is the Best Soap to Use After Surgery?

1. Hibiclens ND-MOL57532 Antiseptic Skin Cleanser

Hibiclens is a well-known antiseptic skin cleanser trusted by medical professionals for wound care. It contains chlorhexidine gluconate and is commonly used for bathing before and after surgery. This soap effectively kills a wide range of germs, bacteria, viruses, yeast, and fungi, making it suitable for the whole body. Despite its powerful cleansing properties, Hibiclens is gentle on the skin. However, some users find the bottle design inconvenient as it lacks a pump, leading to excessive pouring. Additionally, Hibiclens is more expensive compared to regular antibacterial soaps.

2. Dial I0002486 Antibacterial Deodorant Bar Soap

Dial Antibacterial Deodorant Bar Soap is a trusted choice recommended by doctors for surgery. It is an excellent alternative for those allergic to chlorhexidine. This versatile soap can be used for daily showering, handwashing, and even after getting tattoos. It effectively kills odor-causing bacteria, leaving you feeling fresh all day long. Dial Antibacterial Deodorant Bar Soap is also moisturizing, ensuring your skin stays hydrated. However, some users find that the bars dissolve faster than other soap brands, and the Gold variant can stain soap dishes.

3. Rite Aid Antiseptic Skin Cleanser

Rite Aid Antiseptic Skin Cleanser, containing chlorhexidine gluconate, is commonly used by healthcare professionals but is also suitable for personal use. It is dye-free and gentle on sensitive skin. This soap effectively clears away disease-causing bacteria, curbs surgical site infections, and works well with other wound care products. The affordable price and convenient pump bottle make it a great choice, although the plunger can be fragile.

4. Defense Soap All Natural Bar Soap

Defense Soap, formulated by a wrestling coach, is free from additional fragrances, dyes, and potential irritants. It contains tea tree and eucalyptus oil, known for their antibacterial and wound healing properties. This soap safely resolves ringworm, athlete’s foot, jock itch, and acne, making it suitable for sensitive skin and eczema. Defense Soap lathers well, leaving you feeling clean and refreshed. However, some users find that it dries out their skin faster than other options.

5. Truremedy Naturals GN-R9BG-KFJ4 Remedy Soap

Truremedy Naturals Remedy Soap contains tea tree oil, known for its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It is also antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, making it beneficial for caring for surgery scars. This soap is cruelty-free and devoid of parabens, synthetic fragrances, and other potential irritants. It effectively addresses various skin conditions and can soothe itchiness. However, some users find the bottle hard to squeeze, and the soap is considered expensive.

6. VITA VIE Antibacterial Body Wash

VITA VIE Antibacterial Body Wash stands out from typical antibacterial body washes with its fresh scent of lemon, making it a pleasant alternative. Its moisturizing formula contains no harmful chemicals while effectively eliminating 99.9% of bacteria and germs. This body wash is suitable for both kids and adults and is available in 350ml and 1.8-liter sizes. The lack of a plunger can be inconvenient, especially for those who have recently undergone surgery. However, transferring it to a refillable pump bottle can solve this issue.

7. Derma-nu Miracle Skin Remedies Antifungal Therapeutic Soap

Derma-nu’s Antifungal Therapeutic Soap contains tea tree oil and oregano, offering potent antiviral, antiparasitic, and antifungal properties. It effectively addresses athlete’s foot, jock itch, ringworm, yeast infections, and nail fungus. This soap also helps reduce itching and soothe irritations. Some users find that it dries their skin, but this can be remedied by applying moisturizer.

8. CeraVe TAZ3890 Hydrating Cleanser Bar

CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar is a mild soap suitable for sensitive skin. It contains essential ceramides that help restore the skin’s natural protective barrier, locking in moisture while keeping out impurities. This soap is gentle and fragrance-free, making it ideal for daily use and even as a makeup remover. The light foam effectively cleanses without stripping away natural moisture. Some users, however, dislike the scent of the soap.

9. SheaMoisture U-BB-2692 Bar Soap for Troubled Skin

Although primarily marketed as a facial and body soap, SheaMoisture Bar Soap contains tea tree oil, aloe vera, and tamarind extract, making it suitable for post-surgical care. Tea tree oil aids in wound healing, while aloe vera moisturizes dry and sensitive skin. Tamarind extract exfoliates and works alongside oats to absorb excess oil and soothe irritation. This soap leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth, and refreshed.

10. DAILY REMEDY Detox Soap

DAILY REMEDY Detox Soap contains tea tree oil and has a mild pH level, making it suitable for post-surgery care. Its natural ingredients effectively cleanse the skin and eliminate toxins and impurities. This soap moisturizes the skin and leaves a delightful scent. The convenient pump bottle makes it easy to use, especially for individuals with limited mobility. However, some users find the soap’s gel-like consistency unusual.

What to Look for When Buying Soaps to Use After Surgery

When purchasing soaps to use after surgery, it’s important to consider a few factors:

Authenticity: Ensure that the soap you are buying is authentic by purchasing from known brands or reputable distributors. Check for reviews and scrutinize product images.

Pricing: Surgery can be costly, so consider affordable options without compromising quality.

Lather: Don’t judge the soap by its lather; smaller bubbles do not necessarily indicate a less effective cleanser.

Irritations: Read the soap’s label to avoid potential skin irritations and allergies. Consider doing a patch test before using it extensively.

Skin Type: Consider your specific skin type and the soap’s compatibility with it, whether you have oily, dry, or sensitive skin.

How Do You Clean a Surgical Incision?

To clean a surgical incision properly, follow these steps:

1. Practice good handwashing technique with antibacterial soap and dry your hands. Put on medical gloves and remove the old dressing.
2. Check the wound for signs of infection. If any signs are present, contact your doctor. Otherwise, proceed to the next step.
3. Gently wash the incision with antibacterial soap and water to remove any crust, avoiding scrubbing or soaking the wound. Do not use rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or iodine.
4. Allow the incision to air dry or pat it dry with a clean towel before applying a sterile gauze pad and securely taping it in place.
5. Dispose of any waste in a sealed plastic bag and remove your gloves. Wash your hands thoroughly.

It’s important to note that these steps provide a general approach, and specific instructions may vary. Always follow your doctor’s advice for post-surgery wound care.

Conclusion

Proper post-operative skincare is essential for minimizing the risk of infection and ensuring a successful recovery. Choosing the right soap to use after surgery is a crucial step in maintaining cleanliness and preventing complications. The ten soaps discussed in this article offer a range of options suitable for different needs and preferences. Remember to consult with your doctor and follow their recommendations. Cleanse your surgical incision using proper techniques, and always prioritize your overall well-being during the recovery process.