SEVERE — -15 pts

Triclosan

Flags: S-R08, T-R01

Also known as: 5-Chloro-2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)phenol, Irgasan

Kids Sunscreen & SkincareKids Toothpaste & Oral Care

What it is

Triclosan is an antimicrobial agent that was once ubiquitous in antibacterial soaps, toothpastes, deodorants, and cosmetics. It has been largely phased out following FDA action but still appears in some products.

SEVERE

FDA banned triclosan in consumer antiseptic washes in 2016 after manufacturers failed to demonstrate it was safe and more effective than plain soap and water. Triclosan is a documented endocrine disruptor that disrupts thyroid function, and it contributes to antimicrobial resistance.

Why it matters

Endocrine disruption: disrupts thyroid hormone homeostasis
Contributes to antimicrobial resistance
Liver toxicity and liver tumor promotion in animal studies
Environmental persistence and bioaccumulation
Disrupts gut microbiome

The research

Safety and Effectiveness of Consumer Antiseptics; Topical Antimicrobial Drug Products for Over-the-Counter Human Use

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. FDA, 2016. 81 FR 61106 [Source]

"FDA banned triclosan and 18 other antimicrobial ingredients from consumer antiseptic washes after manufacturers did not demonstrate safety and superior effectiveness over plain soap and water"

Who should care most

All consumers, particularly children. Triclosan is absorbed through skin and oral mucosa. Children who swallow toothpaste face higher internal exposure.

How other countries handle it

Country	Status
United States	BANNED in consumer antiseptic washes (2016). Still permitted in some toothpastes and other products. FDA reviewing remaining uses.
European Union	Banned in most cosmetic products. Permitted in toothpaste at max 0.3% and hand soap at max 0.3%.
Canada	Restricted. Under reassessment.
Australia	Permitted with restrictions.

Sources

Safety and Effectiveness of Consumer Antiseptics; Topical Antimicrobial Drug Products for Over-the-Counter Human Use. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. FDA, 2016. 81 FR 61106. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-issues-final-rule-safety-and-effectiveness-antibacterial-soaps

For informational purposes only. Not medical or dietary advice. Consult your pediatrician. Data current as of March 24, 2026.