It has been found that using bar soap for hand washing is more effective than using hand gels and sanitizers.  Washing hands with soap and water for a minute kills germs on hands without destroying good bacteria. 

Here is a useful link regarding the history of handmade soap which also lists a few of the old soap advertisements.  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soap.  It is interesting to read about something that is today taken for granted.  At one time soap was a valuable commodity.

Handmade soaps are the best thing for your skin!