TRICLOCARBAN

Name / description

Triclocarban; 1-(4-Chlorophenyl)-3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)urea

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Function(s) of this ingredient in cosmetic products

ANTIMICROBIAL

Helps control the growth of micro-organisms (eg bacteria and fungi)

DEODORANT

Reduces or masks unpleasant body odours

PRESERVATIVE

Protects cosmetic products from microbial spoilage

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Origin

synthetic

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Occurrence in cosmetics

Liquid soap

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Background information on use in cosmetics

Preservatives protect cosmetic products against microbial spoilage and hence make a major contribution to consumer health. Preservatives are particularly required in cosmetic formulations containing water, because microorganisms can colonise and reproduce in an aqueous (water-containing) environment. Cosmetics often contain more than one preservative substances and these preservative systems act simultaneously against different bacteria, yeasts or moulds. Each of these substances has been comprehensively tested and assessed for safety (individually and in combination). Manufacturers always use only the lowest possible effective concentration in a product so that an optimum shelf life and safe application are ensured.

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Information on safe use

This substance is expressly approved and / or subject to a restriction as a result of an entry in Annex III of the EC Cosmetics Regulation after an assessment by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety of the EU Commission (SCCS). Restrictions can relate eg to purity criteria, a maximum concentration or the restriction to certain product categories. Subject to the conditions possibly imposed in Annex III, the use of this substance in cosmetic products is safe. In accordance with the EC Cosmetics Regulation (Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009), which applies to the entire EU market, preservatives means substances which are exclusively or mainly intended to inhibit the development of microorganisms in the cosmetic product. Annex V of the Regulation defines the substances which may be used as preservatives in cosmetic products. In this so-called positive list of preservatives, maximum concentrations are defined for the use of these substances in cosmetic products as well as the permissible uses. Preservatives are examined in respect of their toxicological safety prior to their approval in Annex V and undergo extensive tests. Manufacturers must prove the health safety in extensive scientific studies.

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Why are we talking about it?

Triclocarban is suspected of being an endocrine disruptor and carcinogenic. It is also suspected of promoting antibiotic resistance in bacteria. The facts: In vitro studies show that triclocarban could interfere with the hormonal system. However, its endocrine disrupting potential has not been confirmed because no undesirable effects linked to hormonal modes of action have been demonstrated. Some results suggest a carcinogenic potential, but these have not been confirmed. Moreover, as the concentrations of triclocarban authorised in cosmetic products are low, European experts consider that its use does not entail any risk in this respect. The increase in bacterial resistance has not been established. Key points to take away: Triclocarban is hardly ever used in cosmetics. It is considered safe for use at the authorised concentrations, which are very low. It is not considered an endocrine disruptor as per European regulations' definition. The effects of triclocarban on bacterial resistance have not been demonstrated.

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Belongs to the following substance groups

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Regulating cosmetics

Cosmetics Ingredients are subject to regulation. Please note, different regulations may apply to cosmetic ingredients outside the EU.