Emerg Infect DiseidEmerging Infectious Diseases1080-60401080-6059Centers for Disease Control112947122631732Research ArticleHygiene of the skin: when is clean too clean?LarsonE.ell23@columbia.eduColumbia University School of Nursing, New York, New York, USA.Mar-Apr200172225230

Skin hygiene, particularly of the hands, is a primary mechanism for reducing contact and fecal-oral transmission of infectious agents. Widespread use of antimicrobial products has prompted concern about emergence of resistance to antiseptics and damage to the skin barrier associated with frequent washing. This article reviews evidence for the relationship between skin hygiene and infection, the effects of washing on skin integrity, and recommendations for skin care practices.