Triclosan vs Formaldehyde (free): which is worse?
Quick answer: Formaldehyde (free) carries the heavier risk profile. Triclosan is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US; Formaldehyde (free) is banned in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Triclosan | Formaldehyde (free) |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Restricted | Banned |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | high | high |
| Banned in | — | European Union |
| Restricted in | European Union | — |
| Category | endocrine disruptor | cmr |
| Where it hides | antibacterial soap, toothpaste, deodorant | nail hardener, keratin treatment, eyelash glue |
What is Triclosan?
Triclosan is an antibacterial and antifungal agent.
What is Formaldehyde (free)?
Formaldehyde (free) is free formaldehyde used directly as a preservative and in salon hair treatments.
Documented risks
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.
Formaldehyde (free): A known human carcinogen (IARC Group 1). Banned from direct use in EU cosmetics; allowed in US products with limited oversight.
Scan a barcode and we'll flag both Triclosan and Formaldehyde (free) (plus 200+ other ingredients banned overseas).
Scan free →