Triclosan

Broad-spectrum antibacterial agent. The EU banned it in leave-on cosmetics and keeps a strict 0.3% cap in other categories.

Evidence by route

Topical application

Very weak or conflicting data.

Raises endocrine disruption and antibiotic resistance concerns. FDA banned it in hand soaps in 2016, and the EU tightened limits across most categories.

Tolerability and safety

Irritation potential

Medium

Allergen risk

High

Pregnancy

Avoid

Skin types

Use with caution

Sensitive

Frequently asked questions

Is Triclosan safe during pregnancy?

Triclosan is not recommended during pregnancy. Consider an alternative from the same category.

What skin types is Triclosan for?

Use with caution in: sensitive.

Can Triclosan irritate the skin?

Triclosan has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.

Can Triclosan cause an allergic reaction?

Triclosan has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.