Triclosan [TCS]

Triclosan (also known as TCS) is an antibacterial and antifungal ingredient found in various consumer products such as toothpaste, soaps, detergents, toys, and surgical cleaning solutions.

It works similarly to triclocarban in its applications and mode of action. Its antibacterial efficacy, the possibility of antimicrobial resistance, and its potential role in disturbed hormonal development are all still up for debate.

Additional research is being conducted to understand its possible effects on species and the environment.

Concerning Facts about Triclosan

• Short-term animal studies have revealed that high dosages of Triclosan cause a drop in thyroid hormone levels, making it an endocrine disruptor.
• Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that can disrupt the body's endocrine system, resulting in negative developmental, reproductive, neurological, and immunological impacts on humans and wildlife.
• Other research has suggested that Triclosan may play a role in developing antibiotic resistance in microorganisms.
• Laboratory investigations have shown that Triclosan can reduce bone mineral density in cell lines and animals.
• Furthermore, there is still no proof that Triclosan in commercial antibiotic bar soap washes is better than conventional soap and water for washing.

Uses and Advantages of Triclosan

• Triclosan has been used safely as a material preservative in various commercial and industrial cleanliness and feminine hygiene products for more than 40 years to avoid bacterial contamination.
• In hospitals and other medical institutions, Triclosan is commonly used as an antibacterial ingredient in conventional surgical scrubs and hand washes.
• Triclosan, which is found in toothpaste, can help fight the germs that cause gingivitis.
• Triclosan can be found in over-the-counter antiseptic items, including hand wipes, rubs, and gels, which could wash hands when water isn't accessible.

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Prevention of Triclosan

• In skincare products, check for Triclosan, also known as Irgasan DP-300, Lexol 300, Ster-Zac, and Cloxifenolum. It has a near relative known as triclocarban.
• Triclosan is usually marketed under the names Microban® (on plastics and clothing) and the name Biofresh® (in acrylic fibres)
• The FDA is also concerned that Triclosan could play a role in the development of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms. Antibacterial wash products used in the household, on the other hand, are not linked to antibiotics or antibacterial resistance, according to numerous published research.
• Even though manufacturers did not show the efficacy of such ingredients in such products, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a new law saying that customer antibacterial wash products (antibacterial soaps) containing different ingredients, including Triclosan, cannot be marketed. Consumer antiseptic washing products/soaps designed for use as a hand or body wash are exempt from the law, as are consumer hand sanitisers or wipes and antiseptic products in use in healthcare and food handling environments.

About Triclosan

Once Triclosan reaches the human system, it is quickly broken down into glucuronide and sulphate conjugates which are easily excreted by urination. While Triclosan's toxicity to humans is limited by the speed with which it is eliminated, direct contact with the skin has been linked to communication to dermatitis and skin rashes reactions.

Triclosan has been discovered in breastmilk, urine, and blood plasma. High quantities of Triclosan were found in around 60% of the breast milk samples, indicating that this chemical has high absorbency.

Several studies are now underway to determine the influence of Triclosan on human health. However, there is no definitive evidence that Triclosan is carcinogenic, mutagenic, or can disrupt human development.

FAQs on Triclosan

Q1. What is Triclosan?

Triclosan (also known as TCS) is an antibacterial and antifungal ingredient found in a variety of consumer products such as toothpaste, soaps, detergents, toys, and surgical cleaning solutions.

Q2. How is FDA related to Triclosan?

Triclosan is a dubious substance that is being studied by both the FDA as well as the EU.

Q3. How do you search for Triclosan in acrylic fibres?

Triclosan is usually marketed under the name Biofresh.

Q4. How do you search for Triclosan in plastics?

Triclosan is usually marketed under the name Microban.