For preschoolers and young children (ages 2–5) triclosan is moderately risky. It can irritate skin and eyes, may trigger allergies or immune effects in sensitive children, and has shown hormone-related effects in studies. It also can persist in the environment.
Avoid giving children 2–5 products labeled “antibacterial” or containing triclosan for everyday use. For handwashing and routine cleaning, use plain soap and water. If soap isn’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol). If a product with triclosan is recommended by a doctor for a specific medical reason, use the lowest effective amount for the shortest time. If you must try a new product, do a small patch test on the child’s inner forearm and wait 24 hours before wider use.
Watch for redness, rash, stinging, swelling, or new breathing or coughing problems after use — these are signs of irritation or allergic reaction (source: EU hazard labeling; AOEC reports). Avoid applying triclosan products to broken skin, open wounds, or near the eyes or mouth. Keep all products out of reach to prevent accidental swallowing; contamination issues like traces of dioxins or chloroform have been reported in the literature and are a reason to avoid nonessential use (sources: peer-reviewed studies noting contamination and persistence; Health Canada restrictions). If you see persistent skin problems or have concerns about hormone or immune effects, talk with your pediatrician.
Scan the full ingredient label and understand if it's safe for your child.
This ingredient has the following documented risks:
Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.
This ingredient may also be listed as:
Always check ingredient labels carefully, as ingredients may be listed under different names.
This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Triclosan or its alternative names.
Scientific research related to this ingredient:
These research articles provide scientific evidence about Triclosan safety and effects.
Triclosan is not recommended for 2-5 year old children due to potential safety risks.
Can cause skin redness, itchiness, or rashes—especially on sensitive baby skin. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Could weaken or confuse immune system. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Can make breathing issues like asthma worse in babies and kids. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
May mess with natural hormone development in babies and children. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Acts like fake hormones in the body, confusing natural signals. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Builds up in the body over time with repeated use. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Linked to long-term health effects after years of use or exposure. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Possible negative effects on the environment Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Can be absorbed through the skin and get into the bloodstream. Young children may be more sensitive to these effects.
Triclosan is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.
The appropriate age depends on the specific ingredient properties and concentration. This analysis is for 2-5 year old children. Use the age selector above to check other ages.
Use our camera scanner to analyze more ingredient labels
Scan Another Product