Cyclopentasiloxane vs Triclosan: which is worse?
Quick answer: Triclosan carries the heavier risk profile. Cyclopentasiloxane is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US; Triclosan is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Cyclopentasiloxane | Triclosan |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Restricted | Restricted |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | medium | high |
| Banned in | — | — |
| Restricted in | European Union | European Union |
| Category | endocrine disruptor | endocrine disruptor |
| Where it hides | hair serum, primer, deodorant | antibacterial soap, toothpaste, deodorant |
What is Cyclopentasiloxane?
Cyclopentasiloxane is a volatile silicone (D5) used for smooth, silky texture.
What is Triclosan?
Triclosan is an antibacterial and antifungal agent.
Documented risks
Cyclopentasiloxane: Persistent and bioaccumulative; the EU restricts D5 in wash-off products over environmental and endocrine concerns. The US has no restriction.
Triclosan: An endocrine disruptor linked to antibiotic resistance. Restricted in the EU and banned in US over-the-counter antibacterial soaps, but still allowed in some products.
Scan a barcode and we'll flag both Cyclopentasiloxane and Triclosan (plus 200+ other ingredients banned overseas).
Scan free →