Overview

Triclosan (TRY-klo-san) is a white crystalline powder with antimicrobial properties that make it a useful ingredient in soaps, cosmetics, acne medications, deodorants, foot sprays and foot powders, toothpastes, and mouthwashes. It acts as an antimicrobial by inhibiting the action of an enzyme called enoyl-acyl carrier-protein reductase (ENR) that bacteria and fungi need to survive. The enzyme is used in the synthesis of fatty acids from which cell membranes are constructed. Having lost the ability to manufacture cell walls, bacteria and fungi die. The ENR enzyme is not present in humans, so triclosan has no effect on the human body.

Triclosan is also known by the following names: 5-chloro-2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)phenol; trichloro-2'-hydroxydiphenylether; and 2,4,4'-trichloro-2'-hydroxydiphenyl ether.

Key Facts

Other Names:

See Overview

Formula:

C₆H₃ClOH-O-C₆H₃Cl₂

Elements:

Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, chlorine

Compound Type:

Organic

State:

Solid

Molecular Weight:

289.54 g/mol

Melting Point:

55°C to...