Widely used in beauty and hygiene products, triclosan is an antibacterial agent recognized as an endocrine disruptor. Health hazards, law in France… Insights from Françoise Couic-Marinier, doctor of pharmacy and expert in aromatherapy.
Definition: what is triclosan?
the triclosan, or 5-chloro-2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)phenol, is a pesticide marketed in the 1970s for washing hands in surgical departments. Since then, the use of this product has greatly diversified. It must be said that triclosan has antifungal and antibacterial properties much appreciated, in particular, by the cosmetics industry. Faced with this massive use of triclosan in many common products, toxicologists have sounded the alarm bell because this biocide would disrupt the endocrine system.
In which products is triclosan found?
Triclosan is present in many beauty and hygiene products such as deodorants, toothpaste, shower gels, soaps and mouthwashes. This molecule is also found in other products such as carpets, toys, kitchen utensils or garbage bags.
What are the health risks ?
“Triclosan is an endocrine disruptor able to cross the skin barrier. It could have effects on the reproduction and developmentas well as consequences for thyroid hormones, which would harm the development of the fetus. Triclosan would also be responsible for a antibiotic resistance“explains Françoise Couic-Marinier. an Inserm study published on September 29, 2017 linked exposure to triclosan during pregnancy to behavioral problems in boys aged 3 to 5 years. Triclosan would also promote the occurrence of cancers.
Is it dangerous in toothpastes?
“Triclosan is dangerous in toothpastes because it is capable of pass the skin barrier. It can therefore end up in the body with all the consequences that this entails.“, warns Françoise Couic-Marinier.
Is it dangerous in deodorants?
“Triclosan is dangerous in deodorants because it penetrates the skinleading to potential health consequences“, laments the pharmacist.
Is it dangerous in soaps?
“Triclosan is dangerous in soaps because it penetrates the skin. In addition to its recognized effects as an endocrine disruptor, it may prove allergenic“, notes our interlocutor.
In which drugs is it contained?
“Triclosan is found in the topical antiseptic SAPOREX BUFFER PH 8.5in precious water purifying cleansing gel, in ACNOPUR regulating care from the BIOTHERM laboratory, as well as in the foam and in the shaving gel NOBACTER from the Eucerin laboratory. They are not drugs per se, but products available in pharmacies“, says Françoise Couic-Marinier.
What are the regulations in France for triclosan?
In France, and within the European Union, the maximum authorized concentration is 0.3% for toothpastes, hand soaps, shower gels, deodorants, face powders and foundations. In mouthwashes, the maximum authorized concentration is 0.2%. Since October 30, 2014, triclosan has been prohibited in shaving products.
What precautions to take with triclosan?
Since triclosan is permitted in toothpastes, soaps, and other cosmetics, labels should be read carefully before purchasing a product. This is the best way to avoid it.
Thanks to Françoise Couic-Marinier, doctor of pharmacy and expert in aromatherapy
Sources: Anses, Sénat.Fr, Inserm press service