Triclosan, what is it?

If you use traditional soaps or shampoos, body washes, toothpaste, or a variety of other personal care products, you may be exposed to triclosan.

Triclosan is a synthetic chemical that has been used in some personal care products as an antibacterial agent.

Sounds good, huh?

There are concerns associated with this ingredient. Over the years, scientific research has examined potential health and environmental effects linked to triclosan exposure. Some studies have suggested that triclosan may affect hormone activity, contribute to skin irritation, and raise concerns related to bacterial resistance. Triclosan has also been detected in human samples such as breast milk, blood, and urine in certain biomonitoring studies.

In addition to potential health concerns, triclosan has raised environmental questions. Research has shown that triclosan can be toxic to certain aquatic organisms, including algae. Because wastewater treatment plants may not fully remove the compound, triclosan has been detected in aquatic environments and in some wildlife species.

Regulators have taken action on triclosan in recent years. In 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ruled that triclosan and several other antibacterial ingredients could no longer be used in over-the-counter consumer antiseptic wash products because manufacturers did not demonstrate that they were safe and more effective than regular soap and water. Several other countries have also restricted or reviewed the ingredient.

And the irony is that triclosan may not provide additional benefit in many everyday uses. FDA reviews concluded that antibacterial soaps containing triclosan were not shown to be more effective than washing with plain soap and water for preventing illness in consumer settings.

Because of these concerns, many companies have moved away from triclosan in personal care formulations.

Natural botanical ingredients such as cranberry, calendula, and green tea are often used in skincare formulations for their antioxidant and skin conditioning properties.

Absolutely Natural has never used triclosan and remains committed to bringing you thoughtfully formulated products designed with both effectiveness and ingredient transparency in mind.

Best regards,

Charley