TRICLOSAN

Name / description

Triclosan; 5-Chloro-2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)phenol

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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

Bath additives, deodorants, soaps, shampoos

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Occurrence in other products

Medicinal products for wound treatment

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Background information on use in cosmetics

Triclosan is a preservative and belongs to the chemical substance group of polychlorinated phenoxy phenols; it is a white, crystalline solid which has biocide, antiseptic and remanent deodorising properties. 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

Triclosan is approved within the framework of the European legislation as a preservative in cosmetic products. The safety of triclosan has been repeatedly verified; lastly in 2011 by the independent Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety of the European Commission (SCCS), both in terms of application safety for humans and in respect of a possible bacterial resistance. The SCCS advocates the use of triclosan as a safe and effective active ingredient in cosmetic products. In its new assessment in 2011 the SCCS merely suggested some supplementary restrictions which ensure that the benefit of this antibacterial active ingredient is maintained. Consequently, triclosan may be used up to 0.3 % in toothpaste, hand soap, bath and shower products, deodorants, face powder and cover sticks as well as nailcare products and up to 0.2 % in mouth waters. 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?

Triclosan is suspected of being an endocrine disruptor and of increasing the resistance of bacteria to antibiotics. The facts: The use of triclosan is restricted to certain categories of cosmetic products, and its concentration is limited. Its skin absorption is low, especially when used in rinse-off products. To exceed the no-effect dose, one would therefore have to use 4 deodorant sticks per day, every day, or 2 whole soaps (for a woman of 57 kg, average weight). In vitro studies show an endocrine disrupting potential on oestrogens, androgens and the thyroid axis. However, an effect on hormone receptors on cells in a laboratory environment is not synonymous with disruption to the endocrine system in a living organism. Moreover, in vivo studies are contradictory, not reproducible and, for the thyroid axis, not transposable to humans. The endocrine disruption characterisation of triclosan has therefore not been confirmed in vivo. It should be remembered as well that soya also has this type of effect without being banned for consumption. Although triclosan does seem to have an impact on the resistance of bacteria to antibiotics in vitro, studies in the environment have not confirmed any increase in resistance. Key points to take away: Its use in cosmetic products, although considered safe for human health at authorised concentrations, is very rare. As with all preservatives, the use of triclosan in cosmetic products is highly regulated. Although further studies are needed, current data do not confirm an endocrine disrupting effect in vivo nor any increase in bacterial resistance in the environment.

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Further information

For the clarification of a suspicion of a contact allergy this substance can be routinely tested in the epicutaneous test at the dermatologist.

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Belongs to the following substance groups