Soap

"Soap" - what is it, definition of the term

A cleansing bar is a solid surfactant composition, typically made from sodium or potassium salts of fatty acids, that reduces water’s surface tension to emulsify oils, suspend dirt, and detach microorganisms from skin or other surfaces; its formulated pH, foaming action, and optional antimicrobial agents enable effective hygiene and the removal of ectoparasites such as ticks, bugs, lice, and fleas.

Detailed information

Detergent bars consist of fatty acid salts that lower surface tension, allowing water to wet and penetrate biological membranes. The basic structure includes a hydrophilic head and a lipophilic tail, forming micelles that encapsulate oily substances and disrupt cell walls. Common ingredients are sodium or potassium salts of oleic, stearic, and palmitic acids, often blended with glycerin, fragrance, and preservatives.

When applied to skin or fabric, the surfactant action dissolves the protective waxy layer of arthropod exoskeletons. This process leads to dehydration and loss of adhesion, effectively killing or dislodging many ectoparasites. For ticks, rinsing the affected area with a saturated solution removes the attachment site within minutes. Lice and nits are detached by thorough washing, as the detergent penetrates the egg shell and prevents hatching. Flea larvae, which feed on organic debris, cannot survive in environments treated with residual soap residues; the oily film interferes with their respiratory openings.

Practical guidelines:

  • Prepare a solution of 5 % detergent bar in warm water.
  • Immerse clothing, bedding, or pet fur for at least 10 minutes.
  • Rinse thoroughly to remove excess surfactant and prevent skin irritation.
  • Repeat treatment weekly during infestation periods to break the life cycle.

Safety considerations include avoiding prolonged skin contact for individuals with dermatitis, and ensuring that animals are not exposed to concentrations above 2 % without veterinary approval. Proper storage in a cool, dry place preserves the efficacy of the cleansing agent for pest control.