Americans are not interested in using bars of soap in the shower anymore, according to a new report.

The Washington Post reported that 55 percent of consumers are no longer using soap bars, according to research firm Mintel.

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Today reported that Mintel's research said that bar soap sales are down  2.2 percent and that the percentage of households using bar soap is down from 89 percent to 84 percent.

Usage of bar soap is slightly higher among males than females, at 68 percent compared to 62 percent, but liquid soaps and body washes remain more popular. Older Americans use bar soap more than younger ones.

Still, research found that "45 percent of consumers believe traditional bar soap can be used to wash their face," although 53 percent of men compared to 36 percent women do so.

The reason for using less bar soap? Consumers cite a perception of soap bars as having more germs, leaving behind residue in the shower and a lack of convenience compared to liquid soaps.

http://twitter.com/washingtonpost/status/768152345041567744

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