What is triclosan and where is it commonly found. How safe is triclosan for human use. What are the potential benefits and risks of triclosan in consumer products. How can consumers identify products containing triclosan. What actions is the FDA taking to evaluate triclosan safety.

Understanding Triclosan: A Common Antibacterial Agent

Triclosan is a widely used antibacterial and antifungal agent found in numerous consumer products. Its primary purpose is to reduce or prevent bacterial contamination, making it a popular ingredient in personal care items and household goods.

Where can triclosan be found?

• Antibacterial soaps and body washes
• Toothpastes
• Cosmetics
• Clothing
• Kitchenware
• Furniture
• Toys

It’s important to note that while the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates triclosan in personal care products, its use in other consumer goods falls outside the FDA’s jurisdiction.

The Safety Profile of Triclosan: Current Research and Concerns

The safety of triclosan has been a subject of ongoing research and debate. While it has been used for decades, recent studies have raised questions about its potential impacts on human health and the environment.

Thyroid Hormone Disruption

Can triclosan affect thyroid function?

Short-term animal studies have shown that exposure to high doses of triclosan may be associated with decreased levels of some thyroid hormones. However, the significance of these findings for human health remains unclear and requires further investigation.

Antibiotic Resistance

Is triclosan contributing to antibiotic resistance?

Some studies have suggested that exposure to triclosan might contribute to making bacteria resistant to antibiotics. However, current data is insufficient to accurately assess the level of risk triclosan poses in the development of antibiotic resistance.

Ongoing Safety Studies

Additional research is underway to explore other potential health impacts of triclosan:

1. A study investigating the potential for developing skin cancer after long-term exposure to triclosan in animals
2. Research on the potential breakdown of triclosan into other chemicals on human skin after exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays

These studies are still in progress, and their results will provide valuable insights into the long-term safety of triclosan use.

Potential Benefits of Triclosan in Consumer Products

While concerns about triclosan’s safety persist, there is evidence of its benefits in certain applications.

Dental Health

Has triclosan shown benefits in oral care products?

In 1997, the FDA reviewed extensive effectiveness data on triclosan in Colgate Total toothpaste. The evidence demonstrated that triclosan in this product was effective in preventing gingivitis, showcasing a clear benefit in dental health applications.

Limited Evidence in Other Products

For many other consumer products, particularly over-the-counter (OTC) antiseptic products, the FDA has not received sufficient evidence that triclosan provides a benefit to human health. Currently, there is no evidence that triclosan in OTC consumer antibacterial soaps and body washes offers any advantage over washing with regular soap and water.

FDA Regulations and Actions on Triclosan

The FDA has taken several steps to evaluate and regulate the use of triclosan in consumer products:

OTC Health-care Antiseptic Products

In December 2017, the FDA issued a final rule regarding certain OTC health-care antiseptic products. As a result, companies are now unable to use triclosan or 23 other active ingredients in these products without premarket review due to insufficient data regarding their safety and effectiveness.

Hand Sanitizers

The FDA has recently issued a final rule on OTC hand sanitizers and continues to review the three active ingredients commonly used in these products.

Ongoing Evaluation

The FDA continues to review safety and effectiveness data on triclosan through its OTC antiseptic rulemakings. Additionally, the agency monitors and follows the scientific literature available for the safety and effectiveness of triclosan.

Identifying Triclosan in Consumer Products

For consumers concerned about triclosan exposure, it’s essential to know how to identify products containing this ingredient.

OTC Drugs

How can you find triclosan in OTC products?

Antibacterial soaps, body washes, and fluoride toothpastes are considered OTC drugs. If an OTC drug contains triclosan, it should be listed as an ingredient on the label in the Drug Facts box.

Cosmetics

For cosmetic products containing triclosan, the ingredient should be included in the ingredient list on the product label.

Common Products Containing Triclosan

While many manufacturers have begun reformulating their products without triclosan due to public pressure, it’s still present in various consumer goods. Here’s a non-exhaustive list of products that have contained or may still contain triclosan:

Personal Care Products

• Dial® Liquid handsoap and bodywash
• Tea Tree Therapy™ Liquid Soap
• Clearasil® Daily Face Wash
• Dermalogica® Skin Purifying Wipes
• DermaKleen™ Antibacterial Lotion Soap
• CVS Antibacterial Soap
• Bath and Body Works Antibacterial Hand Soaps, Gels, and Foaming Sanitizers

Dental Care Products

• Colgate Total®
• Breeze™ Daily Mouthwash
• Reach® Antibacterial Toothbrush

Cosmetics and Skincare

• Garden Botanika® Powder Foundation
• Mavala Lip Base
• Movate® Skin Litening Cream HQ
• Revlon ColorStay LipSHINE Lipcolor Plus Gloss
• Babor Volume Mascara
• Phytomer Perfect Visage Gentle Cleansing Milk
• Phytomer Hydracontinue Instant Moisture Cream

Household Products

• Ajax Antibacterial Dishsoap
• Kimcare Antibacterial Clear Soap
• Paul Mitchell Detangler Comb

It’s important to note that product formulations may change without notice, and some retail outlets may still carry older formulations containing triclosan. Consumers should always check product labels for the most up-to-date information.

Alternatives to Triclosan-Containing Products

Given the ongoing safety concerns and regulatory scrutiny surrounding triclosan, many consumers are seeking alternatives to products containing this ingredient.

Natural Antibacterial Options

Are there effective natural alternatives to triclosan?

Several natural ingredients have demonstrated antibacterial properties and are increasingly being used in personal care products:

• Tea tree oil
• Thyme oil
• Oregano oil
• Eucalyptus oil
• Lemon oil

These essential oils can provide antimicrobial benefits without the potential risks associated with triclosan.

Traditional Soap and Water

For general hand hygiene, the FDA states that there is no evidence that antibacterial soaps with triclosan are more effective than plain soap and water in preventing illness and the spread of certain infections. Regular handwashing with ordinary soap remains one of the most effective ways to remove germs and prevent the spread of infections.

Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers

When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be an effective alternative. These products typically contain ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, or n-propanol, which have been shown to be effective at killing germs without the concerns associated with triclosan.

Environmental Concerns Related to Triclosan Use

Beyond human health considerations, the widespread use of triclosan has raised environmental concerns.

Water Contamination

How does triclosan impact aquatic ecosystems?

Triclosan can enter waterways through wastewater treatment plants, as it is not completely removed during the treatment process. Studies have shown that triclosan can be toxic to aquatic life, particularly algae and certain fish species. Its presence in water bodies may disrupt aquatic ecosystems and potentially contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the environment.

Bioaccumulation

Triclosan has been found to bioaccumulate in some organisms, meaning it can build up in the tissues of fish and other aquatic life over time. This accumulation can potentially affect the entire food chain, including humans who consume fish from contaminated waters.

Soil Impact

When triclosan-containing products are disposed of in landfills or when sewage sludge is used as fertilizer, the chemical can enter soil ecosystems. Research has shown that triclosan can negatively impact soil microorganisms, which play crucial roles in nutrient cycling and overall soil health.

Future Outlook: Triclosan Regulation and Research

As concerns about triclosan continue to grow, regulatory bodies and researchers are focusing on better understanding its impacts and potentially phasing out its use in certain products.

Ongoing FDA Evaluation

The FDA continues to evaluate the safety and efficacy of triclosan in consumer products. This ongoing assessment may lead to further restrictions on its use or additional labeling requirements to inform consumers.

International Regulations

How are other countries addressing triclosan use?

Several countries have taken steps to restrict or ban triclosan in certain products:

• The European Union has banned triclosan in human hygiene biocidal products
• Canada has prohibited the use of triclosan in personal care products
• Australia has imposed restrictions on triclosan in cosmetic products

These international actions may influence future regulatory decisions in the United States and other countries.

Emerging Research

Scientists continue to investigate the long-term effects of triclosan exposure on human health and the environment. Areas of ongoing research include:

• The potential role of triclosan in endocrine disruption
• Its impact on the human microbiome
• Long-term ecological effects in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems
• The development of safer, more environmentally friendly antimicrobial alternatives

As new research emerges, it will likely inform future policy decisions and consumer choices regarding triclosan-containing products.

Consumer Awareness and Informed Choices

With the ongoing debate surrounding triclosan, consumers play a crucial role in driving market trends and regulatory actions through their purchasing decisions.

Reading Labels

Consumers are encouraged to carefully read product labels and ingredient lists to identify triclosan-containing products. This awareness allows individuals to make informed choices about the products they use in their daily lives.

Seeking Information

How can consumers stay informed about triclosan?

To stay up-to-date on the latest research and regulatory actions regarding triclosan, consumers can:

• Follow FDA announcements and updates
• Consult reputable scientific sources and consumer advocacy groups
• Engage with healthcare professionals about the use of antibacterial products
• Stay informed about product recalls or reformulations

Supporting Alternative Products

By choosing products that do not contain triclosan, consumers can support companies that are moving away from its use. This market pressure can encourage more manufacturers to explore safer alternatives and reformulate their products.

As research continues and regulations evolve, the landscape of triclosan use in consumer products is likely to change. Staying informed and making conscious choices can help consumers navigate these changes and contribute to broader efforts to ensure product safety and environmental protection.

5 Things to Know About Triclosan

Does the product contain triclosan? On over-the-counter drug products, read the ingredients on the Drug Facts label. On cosmetics, read the list of ingredients.

What Is Triclosan?

Triclosan is an ingredient added to many consumer products intended to reduce or prevent bacterial contamination. It is added to some antibacterial soaps and body washes, toothpastes, and some cosmetics—products regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It also can be found in clothing, kitchenware, furniture, and toys—products not regulated by the FDA.

How Safe Is Triclosan?

Some short-term animal studies have shown that exposure to high doses of triclosan is associated with a decrease in the levels of some thyroid hormones. But we don’t know the significance of those findings to human health. Other studies have raised the possibility that exposure to triclosan contributes to making bacteria resistant to antibiotics. At this time, we don’t have enough information available to assess the level of risk that triclosan poses for the development of antibiotic resistance.

There are other ongoing studies that involve the safety of triclosan. One is a study investigating the potential of developing skin cancer after a long-term exposure to triclosan in animals. Another is a study on the potential breakdown of triclosan to other chemicals on human skin after exposure to triclosan to ultraviolet (UV) rays. At this time, neither study has been completed.

Are There Benefits of Triclosan?

For some consumer products, there is evidence that triclosan provides a benefit. In 1997, FDA reviewed extensive effectiveness data on triclosan in Colgate Total toothpaste. The evidence showed that triclosan in that product was effective in preventing gingivitis.

For other products, such as over-the-counter (OTC) consumer antiseptic products, FDA has not received evidence that triclosan provides a benefit to human health. At this time, FDA doesn’t have evidence that triclosan in OTC consumer antibacterial soaps and body washes provides any benefit over washing with regular soap and water.

In December 2017, the FDA issued a final rule regarding certain OTC health-care antiseptic products. As a result, companies will not be able to use triclosan or 23 other active ingredients in these products without premarket review due to insufficient data regarding their safety and effectiveness. The FDA recently issued a final rule on OTC hand sanitizers and will continue to review the three active ingredients commonly used in hand sanitizers.

How Can I Tell if There Is Triclosan in a Product?

Antibacterial soaps and body washes, and fluoride toothpastes are considered OTC drugs. If an OTC drug contains triclosan, it should be listed as an ingredient on the label, in the Drug Facts box. If a cosmetic contains triclosan, it should be included in the ingredient list on the product label.

What Is FDA Doing to Evaluate the Safety of Triclosan?

FDA has been reviewing safety and effectiveness data on triclosan in the agency’s OTC antiseptic rulemakings. FDA will also continue to monitor and follow the scientific literature available for the safety and effectiveness of triclosan.

For more information on consumer antiseptic washes, see the final rule.

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Products Containing Triclosan — Beyond Pesticides

DISCLAIMER: Due to public pressure, many major manufacturers have quietly begun reformulating their products without triclosan. Product formulations may change without notice. Below is a small sampling of products formulated with, or used to be formulated with triclosan and is not to be considered a comprehensive list. Remember to always refer to product labels to determine whether triclosan is contained in your product. Some retail outlets may still carry older formulations. Look out for labels that state: “antimicrobial protection.” Some antibacterial soaps may use triclosan’s cousin, triclocarban, in place of triclosan.

Soap: Dial® Liquid handsoap and bodywash; Tea Tree Therapy™ Liquid Soap; Clearasil® Daily Face Wash; Dermalogica® Skin Purifying Wipes; DermaKleen™ Antibacterial Lotion Soap; CVS Antibacterial Soap, Ajax Antibacterial Dishsoap, Kimcare Antibacterial Clear Soap, Bath and Body Works Antibacterial Hand Soaps, Gels and Foaming Sanitizers.

Dental Care: Colgate Total®; Breeze™ Daily Mouthwash; Reach® Antibacterial Toothbrush

Cosmetics: Garden Botanika® Powder Foundation; Mavala Lip Base; Movate® Skin Litening Cream HQ; Paul Mitchell Detangler Comb, Revlon ColorStay LipSHINE Lipcolor Plus Gloss, Babor Volume Mascara, Phytomer Perfect Visage Gentle Cleansing Milk, Phytomer Hydracontinue Instant Moisture Cream, Bath and Body Works Antibacterial Moisturizing Lotions.

Deodorant: Arm and Hammer® Essentials Natural Deodorant; Queen Helene® Tea Trea Oil Deodorant and Aloe Deodorant; DeCleor Deodorant Stick; Epoch® Deodorant with Citrisomes.

First Aid: SyDERMA® Skin Protectant plus First Aid Antiseptic; Healwell Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint; Solarcaine® First Aid Medicated Spray; Nexcare™ First Aid, Skin Crack Care; : Universal Cervical Collar with Microban.

Kitchenware: Farberware® Microban Cutting Boards; Franklin Machine Products FMP Ice Cream Scoop SZ 20 Microban; Hobart Semi-Automatic Slicer; Chix® Food Service Wipes with Microban; Compact Web Foot® Wet Mop Heads.

Other Personal Care Products: Murad Acne Complex® Kit, ®; Diabet-x™ Cream; Scunci Microban Comb, Sportslick Pocket Slick.

Clothes: Biofresh® socks, undergarments, tops and bottoms.

Office and School Products: Ticonderoga® Pencils with Microban Protection, Avery® Touchgaurd View Binders, C-line® products, Clauss® cutting instruments, Costco® products, Sharp® printing calculators. Westcott® scissors

Other: Bionare® Cool Mist Humidifier; Deciguard AB® Antimicrobial Ear Plugs; Bauer® Re-Akt hockey helmet and 7500 hockey helment; Miller Paint Acro Pure Interior Paint; Holmes Foot Buddy™ HMh220U Antimicrobial Foot Buddy Foot Warmer, Blue Mountain Wall Coverings, California Paints®, Davis Paint® Perfection, Hirschfield’s Paint®,O’Leary Paint®, EHC AMRail Escalator Handrails, Dupont™ Air Filters, Winix Dehumidifiers, J Cloth® towels, select Quickie cleaning products, Kimberly Clark® WYPALL X80 Towels, Canopy® kitchen towels, ALUF Plastics®, BioEars earplugs, Petmate® LeBistro feeders and waterers, Infantino cart covers and baby carriers, Oreck XL®, Bissell Healthy Home Vacuum™, NuTone® Central Vacuum systems, Rival® Seal-A-Meal® Vacuum Food Sealer, CleenFreek SportsHygiene Yoga Mat, Resilite Sports Products, Rubbermaid® Coolers, Stufitts sports gear, Venture Products® fitness mats, Custom Building Products, DAP®Kwik Seal Plus®, Laticrete, Niasa Biquichamp® mortar grout and sealant, ProAdvanced Products.

For more information on products containing Microban, the antibacterial product containing triclosan go to their webpage.

JMS Triclosept – Liquid hand sanitizer with triclosan

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• JMS Triclosept – Liquid hand sanitizer with triclosan

	Conforms to WHO recommendations. Kills the full spectrum of bacteria, viruses and fungi in 30 seconds
	Contains up to 70% isopropyl alcohol
	HAND SAFE. Contains tea tree oil, coconut oil and glycerin to nourish the skin and protect it from excessive drying
	Does not require rinsing, does not leave a sticky feeling. Suitable for daily use
	Wholesale prices and flexible delivery terms
	Contract manufacturing

Purpose

Neutral concentrated disinfectant (antiseptic) based on isopropyl alcohol and triclosan. Contains glycerin, coconut oil and tea tree oil to nourish hand skin and protect it from drying out.

Used for washing and antiseptic treatment of the skin of the hands of working personnel, for filling sanitary checkpoints, for processing sanitary rugs, soft toys, upholstered and hard furniture, floors and equipment. The product kills the entire spectrum of microbes and bacteria, eliminates strong odors.

Recommended for use in medical, children’s institutions, food industry (dairy, meat, fish processing, etc. ), public catering and at home.

Features

How to use

Ready to use. In medical institutions, it is used for washing and antibacterial treatment of hands, as well as disinfection of various surfaces and objects. It is refilled into dispensers, sanitary checkpoints, applied to disinfection barrier mats.

The product is concentrated, when used outside of medicine, if desired, it can be diluted with water at the rate of 1 part of the product to 3 parts of water.

For hand sanitizer, apply to clean hands, spread evenly and rub thoroughly for 2-3 minutes, including between fingers. If desired, you can rinse with water, but the product is safe for the skin of the hands.

When disinfecting surfaces and objects with a sprayer, evenly apply a thin layer of the agent over the object to be treated (slippers, upholstered and hard furniture, floors, equipment, etc.), if desired, the agent can be washed off with water after 5-10 minutes.

Remains effective in cold water. Does not dry out hands, suitable for daily use.

Precautions

Do not ingest! Avoid contact with eyes! Keep away from children! Use only as directed! Do not mix with other products! May ignite, keep away from fire and excessive heat!

In case of contact with eyes and mucous membranes, rinse with plenty of water. Seek medical attention if necessary.

TU9144-001-98205538-2006 with amendment 1

Storage

-5°C to +40°C in dry warehouses, out of direct sunlight.

Warranty period of storage – 36 months in a closed original container. After defrosting, it retains its properties. When stratified, the solution must be mixed before use. After the expiration date, dispose of as household waste.

Composition

Mild surfactant composition (c-surfactant 2-10%, n-surfactant <5%), isopropyl alcohol 50-70%, triclosan, tea tree oil, glycerin, coconut oil, antibacterial complex, fragrance, water.

ZhMS “Triclobact”.

Liquid hand soap with triclosan 500ml (with dispenser)

• Description

Purpose:

Neutral foam antibacterial toilet soap with a disinfectant effect. Contains mild surfactants, triclosan, allantoin glycerin, coconut oil, special antiseptic and moisturizing additives that moisturize and protect the skin of the hands from drying out, kill bacteria, give hands a clean and fresh scent. Suitable for daily washing of hands contaminated with oil and fat and protein food residues, removes combined dirt, eliminates pungent odors.

Recommended for use in medical, children’s institutions, food industry (dairy, meat, fish processing, etc.), public catering and at home.

Features:

Appearance	Colored gel liquid
Density, kg/m3(20°С)	900-1150
pH -100% solution (20°C)	4. 5-7.5
pH -1% solution (20°C) in distilled water	3.5-6.0
Surfactants in %, not less than	12

Application:

Attention! Shake well before use!

Used for washing and antibacterial treatment of hands in finished form, refilled into dispensers. Apply a small amount of soap to wet hands, spread evenly until foam forms. Wash off with warm water.

The agent removes any protein, fat and combined contamination, eliminates strong odors, kills bacteria and fungi. Does not dry hands, effective in cold water, suitable for daily use.

Precautions:

Do not ingest! Use only as directed! Do not mix with other products! Avoid contact with eyes! Keep away from children! At hit of means on a mucous membrane immediately to wash out water. Seek medical attention if necessary.

Storage:

From -5° C to +40° C in dry warehouses, protected from direct sunlight.