The FDA's Ban on Triclosan in Consumer Soaps
Before 2016, triclosan was commonly found in many soaps. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a final rule in 2016 prohibiting triclosan and 18 other antimicrobials from over-the-counter consumer antiseptic wash products, including various forms of soap. This ban took effect in September 2017. The FDA's decision stemmed from manufacturers' failure to demonstrate the chemicals were both safe for long-term daily use and more effective at preventing illness than plain soap and water.
For many years, antibacterial soaps were marketed as providing superior protection. However, the FDA found no scientific evidence to support this claim for consumer use. Consequently, if you are asking about triclosan in U.S. consumer soaps today, the answer is that it is not present due to the ban, which focused on wash products but effectively removed it from the soap category.
Why the Ban Was Enacted: Health and Environmental Concerns
The FDA's ban was driven by growing concerns regarding the safety of widespread triclosan use. Health and environmental groups highlighted potential risks associated with the chemical.
Health Implications
- Endocrine Disruption: Triclosan is classified as an endocrine-disrupting chemical, potentially interfering with hormone systems. Studies suggest high-dose exposure in animals may affect thyroid hormones and have reproductive/developmental impacts.
- Antibiotic Resistance: There are concerns that using antimicrobials like triclosan in consumer products contributes to the development of drug-resistant bacteria. Exposure to low levels can induce cross-resistance to other antibiotics.
- Skin Irritation: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation from triclosan contact.
Environmental Impacts
- Water Contamination: Triclosan often persists in wastewater after treatment and can accumulate in aquatic environments and organisms.
- Toxic Byproducts: Triclosan can form chloroform when it reacts with chlorine in water and can break down into toxic compounds like dioxins in sunlight.
Products That May Still Contain Triclosan
While consumer wash products are largely free of triclosan, it may still be present in other items not covered by the FDA's ban, such as products used in healthcare settings or certain industrial applications.
Potential Sources of Triclosan:
- Toothpaste: Some toothpastes, like Colgate Total, have used triclosan for gingivitis treatment, although formulations can change. Toothpaste is regulated as a drug by the FDA, requiring review for triclosan use.
- Cosmetics and Skincare: Triclosan has appeared in certain cosmetics, cleansers, and acne treatments. Checking ingredient lists is crucial.
- Textiles and Plastics: The EPA regulates triclosan when it's used as a pesticide in items like clothing, footwear, kitchenware, furniture, and toys under trade names such as Microban or Biofresh.
- Industrial/Commercial Products: Equipment such as conveyor belts and HVAC systems may contain triclosan for antimicrobial purposes.
Identifying and Avoiding Triclosan
Always read ingredient labels to identify triclosan. The FDA mandates its listing in drug products. In other items, look for the term "triclosan" or trade names like Microban.
Tips for avoiding triclosan:
- Read the Label: Check ingredient lists on personal care items.
- Stick to Plain Soap: The FDA recommends plain soap and water for effective handwashing.
- Beware of Claims: Be cautious of unnecessary "antibacterial" claims on products.
Comparison of Soaps: Before and After the Ban
| Feature | Soaps Before the 2016 Ban (May Contain Triclosan) | Soaps After the 2016 Ban (Triclosan-Free) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Often contained triclosan, triclocarban, and other antimicrobials. | Contain other active ingredients like benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, or plain soap. |
| Effectiveness Claim | Marketed as more effective than regular soap against germs. | Focus on cleaning power or moisturization; not promoted as superior for germ-killing in consumer settings. |
| FDA Stance | Under review for safety and efficacy. | Banned after failing to meet safety and efficacy standards. |
| Long-Term Safety | Potential risks including endocrine disruption and antibiotic resistance. | Considered safe for regular, long-term consumer use by FDA. |
The Recommended Alternative: Simple Soap and Water
The FDA and CDC recommend washing hands with plain soap and water as an effective way to prevent illness. Plain soap removes germs, and antibacterial chemicals like triclosan offer no additional benefit for general consumer use. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer is an alternative when soap and water aren't available.
Conclusion
The FDA's 2016 ruling effectively removed triclosan from common consumer soaps. This was due to insufficient evidence of its safety and effectiveness over plain soap and water, alongside health and environmental concerns. Although triclosan may still be in some other products, consumers can be confident it's not in over-the-counter antibacterial wash products in the U.S. Plain soap and water remain the recommended method for hand hygiene. For more information on the FDA's decision, see the consumer update: Skip the Antibacterial Soap; Use Plain Soap and Water.
