Substances do not always perform as expected or believed in living situations. In most cases, one learns about a thing through scientifically testing its limitations. Many studies demonstrated that BAK (benzalkonium chloride) and BZK (benzethonium chloride) could be ineffective as antiseptics for piercing and care. This presented possibilities for uses or failures that were not apparent in literature provided with the products. Their mildness may be their downfall. The conclusion maintained foremost was that BAK and BZK, as cationic surface active agents, can be neutralized by the alkali or base substances that exist in nearly every kind of soap or shampoo and naturally occur in some skin. The chemical residue may also be irritating, contribute to lumps forming, and accelerate or enable metal dermatitis.