Oversanitizing can have negative consequences. First, some antibacterials contain a substance called triclosan. Triclosan is a chlorphenol, and is registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a pesticide with high scores both as human and environmental health risks. Chlorphenols are highly toxic, with chemical and molecular structures similiar to dioxins and PCBs, both of which are known carcinogens. An animal study done in 2006 demonstrated that triclosan blocked metabolism of the thyroid hormone.

From an environmental standpoint, phenols persist for many years, and have been demonstrated to accumulate in fat tissues. They have been found in breast milk at alarming levels, even in rural areas. For these reasons, chlorphenols are termed persistent organic pollutants.

On a personal level, one's body has several levels of defense against invading microorganisms. The primary level is the skin. Skin is meant to be an intact physical barrier, to help a body avoid introduction of pathogens. In addition to being a physical barrier, the skin has multiple beneficial microorganisms (estimated at 10,000 to 10 million per hand) that help fight off pathogens. Therefore, the "good" bacteria help prevent the "bad" bacteria from gaining entry into your body.

When a person uses triclosan, all bacteria is destroyed, both good and bad. In addition, the antibacterial has a drying effect, which can lead to small fissures (cracks) in one's skin. Germs can then more easily enter the body. The effects of eliminating good bacteria and of skin cracks are that a person loses both the physical and microbial barriers that help prevent infection and illness.

FYI: Triclosan is in many household products, including: Triclosan is used in many common household products including Clearasil Daily Face Wash, Dentyl mouthwash, the Colgate Total range, Pepsodent, Softsoap, Dial, Right Guard deodorant, Sensodyne Total Care, Old Spice and Mentadent.

Oversanitizing can have other detrimental effects. Humans are meant to be exposed to a variety of microorganisms, and then to develop immunity to the pathogenic germs. Our immune systems begin in the womb, when the mom transfers her antibodies to her fetus. Once the baby is born, she begins to colonize her own set of healthful bacteria. Studies have shown that children who are not exposed to potential pathogens are not as likely to have strong immunity when exposed to infection. In additon, they are at increased risk for asthma and allergies.

The best hygienic practice is to wash hands using regular soap, plenty of warm water and good friction. This has been found to provide the most benefit with the least harm to our skin. If no soap/water are available, the next best option is alcohol-based hand sanitizer (60-95% alcohol).

Lastly, remember that whichever antibacterials you use, they are antiBACTERIAL. They are not antiVIRAL. When you consider that colds, influenzae (including H1N1), and vomiting/diarrhea infections are due to viruses, using antibacterials only serves to give a person a false sense of security. People who use copious amounts of no-water antibacterials may be less likely to do frequent handwashing, which increases risk of illness to themselves and the people around.
Source(s):
http://www.health-report.co.uk/triclosan.html
http://www.accessexcellence.org/HHQ/qow/qow04/qow041004.php
http://www.usc.edu/hsc/info/pr/hmm/00-01winter/germs.html

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