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Quick answer: Triclosan carries the heavier risk profile. Kojic acid is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US; Triclosan is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Kojic acid | 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 | skin-brightening serum, dark-spot cream | antibacterial soap, toothpaste, deodorant |
Kojic acid is a fungal-derived skin-lightening agent.
Triclosan is an antibacterial and antifungal agent.
Kojic acid: A sensitizer flagged for possible thyroid effects; the EU caps it at 1% in face/hand products. US use is unrestricted.
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.
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