Triclosan
Also known as: Antibacterial agent, Microban
Antibacterial agent banned in soaps by FDA. Still found in toothpaste and other products.
Why it's harmful
Triclosan is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that was marketed as making products "antibacterial." The FDA banned it from soaps in 2016 after concluding it provides no benefit over regular soap.
No benefit, real harm: FDA review found antibacterial soaps with triclosan were no more effective than plain soap and water at preventing illness.
Thyroid disruption: Triclosan interferes with thyroid hormone metabolism. Animal studies show reduced thyroid hormone levels; human studies show associations with altered thyroid function.
Antibiotic resistance: Triclosan contributes to antibiotic resistance. Bacteria exposed to triclosan develop cross-resistance to clinical antibiotics.
Microbiome disruption: Triclosan doesn't discriminate between harmful and beneficial bacteria. It disrupts skin and gut microbiomes.
Still around: Despite the soap ban, triclosan remains in some toothpastes (Colgate Total), cosmetics, and household items marketed as "antibacterial."
Where it's found
- -Some toothpastes (Colgate Total)
- -Hand sanitisers
- -Cosmetics
- -Kitchen items labeled "antibacterial"
Why avoid it
Provides no benefit over regular soap while disrupting thyroid function and contributing to antibiotic resistance.