From the Guidelines
Soaps with triclosan have not been found to cause significant health problems in users, but may cause individual skin irritation or allergic reactions in some cases. The majority of formulations containing <2% triclosan are well-tolerated and seldom cause allergic reactions 1. Some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions to certain ingredients in soaps, such as fragrances, preservatives, or dyes, but these reactions are typically individual sensitivities rather than widespread health problems.
Key Points to Consider
- Triclosan has a broad range of antimicrobial activity, but it is often bacteriostatic 1
- The agent possesses reasonable activity against mycobacterial and Candida spp., but it has limited activity against filamentous fungi 1
- Triclosan (0.1%) reduces bacterial counts on hands by 2.8 log 10 after a 1-minute hygienic handwash 1
- Allergic reactions to antiseptic agents, including triclosan, have been reported, but are uncommon 1
Recommendations for Use
- If you experience skin irritation, redness, itching, or rashes after using a particular soap, discontinue use and switch to a hypoallergenic or fragrance-free alternative
- Soaps work by containing surfactants that break down oils and dirt on the skin, which are then rinsed away with water
- Most regulatory agencies around the world monitor soap ingredients for safety, and truly harmful ingredients are generally not permitted in commercially available products 1
From the Research
Health Problems Associated with Triclosan
- Triclosan, an antibacterial agent found in soaps and other personal care products, has been linked to various health problems, including reproductive issues 2.
- The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the use of triclosan in soap products in 2016 due to concerns over its safety 2, 3.
- Studies have shown that triclosan can be absorbed into human skin and oral mucosa, and has been found in various human tissues and fluids 2, 3.
- Triclosan has been classified as an endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC), which can interfere with hormone function in the body 3.
Toxicity and Safety Concerns
- Several reports have suggested that triclosan is toxic to humans, although the exact mechanisms of its toxicity are not fully understood 3.
- A study found that triclosan exposure was associated with an increased risk of reproductive problems, although the evidence is still limited 2.
- Another study found that triclosan was not expected to cause adverse health effects in children or adults who use products containing it as intended 4.
- However, a study on health care workers found that occupational exposure to triclosan-containing soap was a substantial source of triclosan exposure, and was associated with higher levels of triclosan in urine 5.
Resistance and Environmental Concerns
- The widespread use of triclosan has raised concerns about the development of antimicrobial resistance, as bacteria can become resistant to triclosan and other antimicrobials 6.
- Triclosan has been found to be present in the environment, and its use has been linked to the development of resistant bacteria in various ecosystems 6.