Triclosan acts as an endocrine disruptor in animal models and bioaccumulates, supporting its phase-out from consumer products

This review examined the environmental occurrence, toxicological effects, and mechanisms of action of triclosan, an antimicrobial agent widely used in personal care products, soaps, and toothpaste. Evidence from animal studies showed triclosan disrupts thyroid hormone homeostasis, has weak androgenic and estrogenic effects, and bioaccumulates in aquatic organisms. The review noted triclosan's ubiquitous presence in waterways and human biomonitoring samples. This body of evidence contributed to the FDA's 2016 ban on triclosan in over-the-counter antiseptic wash products.

Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada