A new wave of concern is sweeping through the pediatric health field following the publication of research in Environmental Health Perspectives, which found that children with double the urinary triclosan levels had a 23 percent higher likelihood of experiencing eczema symptoms. Triclosan, a chemical once widespread in antibacterial soaps and body washes, was restricted in the United States nearly a decade ago. However, evidence suggests it persists in everyday products worldwide — including in Thailand — with the potential for ongoing health impacts, particularly among vulnerable young populations (Washington Post).
This news holds considerable relevance for Thai parents, educators, and health authorities. Skin disorders such as eczema are already common among children in Thailand, creating discomfort and, in some cases, leading to long-term health challenges. Understanding environmental factors that can aggravate these conditions is of critical public health importance, particularly in a country where the use of antimicrobial agents in personal care and household products remains prevalent (ScienceDirect).
Researchers analysed urine samples from children and found that those with higher concentrations of triclosan — an ingredient still present in certain toothpastes, deodorants, cosmetics, and detergents even after regulatory limitations in the West — reported significantly more symptoms of eczema. Triclosan has been under global scrutiny for many years. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned its inclusion in consumer wash products in 2016, having determined that it was no more effective than regular soap and water, and raised concerns about potential adverse effects on hormone regulation, antimicrobial resistance, and the risk of allergic diseases (Environmental Health Perspectives; Wikipedia).
There are echoes of this concern in studies from major health research centres. Recent publications echo the findings of the Environmental Health Perspectives study, highlighting data that suggest exposure to triclosan and other phenols is associated with increased allergic symptoms, notably eczema, in children (PubMed). Another paper examining data from the Health Outcomes and Measures of the Environment (HOME) Study pointed to links between triclosan exposure and atopic as well as allergic conditions over a span of a decade (PubMed HOME Study).
Expert opinion appears to be converging, with leading paediatric dermatologists and immunologists warning caution. An infectious diseases researcher at a major children’s hospital in the United States commented, “While the causality is still being explored, the consistent association between triclosan exposure and eczema signals a need for stronger regulation and more public education.” A Bangkok-based dermatologist from the Thai Society of Pediatric Dermatology remarked, “Many parents believe that antibacterial soaps are essential for children’s cleanliness and protection, but these facts indicate that excessive and inappropriate use could ironically be detrimental, especially for young skin.”
Thailand has moved to restrict triclosan in line with ASEAN and international standards. The current legal limit for triclosan in rinse-off products is 0.3%, and for mouthwashes, 0.2% (RRMA). Strict standards are being introduced for the cosmetics industry, although the substance is not yet entirely banned. Notably, research on rivers and coastal waters in Thailand has detected significant concentrations of triclosan, underlining the environmental dimensions of this chemical’s persistence (ScienceDirect). The chemical’s presence in waterways raises additional public health and ecological concerns, as it may affect aquatic life and enter the human food chain.
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterised by itchiness, dryness, and rashes. While genetics play a role, environmental factors and irritants strongly influence how and when symptoms develop. Thailand’s hot and humid climate can exacerbate skin conditions, often leading concerned parents to overuse personal care products marketed as ‘hypoallergenic’ or ‘antibacterial.’ The recent findings suggest parents should be especially vigilant about product ingredients.
Triclosan’s history is instructive. Introduced in the late 1960s as a hospital-grade antibacterial agent, triclosan spread into consumer products during the late 20th century (Wikipedia). These included hand soaps, toothpaste, shampoos, toys, detergents, and even clothing. While marketed as a way to promote hygiene and prevent infection, studies published in the early 2000s began to question its safety and effectiveness. A tipping point came in 2016 when the US FDA prohibited its use in most consumer washes due to a lack of evidence of benefit and indications of possible harm.
For Thai society, the story has a uniquely local resonance. Superstitions about cleanliness and disease prevention date back to pre-modern times, and Thai homes traditionally place high value on the cleanliness of the body and the home. In recent decades, advertising campaigns have reinforced the promise that “antibacterial” means safer. Now, as concerns about overexposure to antimicrobial chemicals grow, there is a clear need to balance modern hygiene practices with evidence-based public health advice.
Looking ahead, the ongoing presence of triclosan in certain product categories means that regulatory vigilance and consumer awareness are more important than ever. Experts argue that labeling requirements should be even more stringent and public education campaigns intensified to spread awareness about potential risks, especially in vulnerable groups such as infants and young children. There is also a call for medical professionals to ask about household product use when evaluating children with recurrent or persistent eczema, and for further research into the cumulative effects of low-dose, long-term triclosan exposure (Florence Statement).
As Thailand’s regulatory ministries continue to align with international standards, there is hope for reducing unnecessary exposure — but challenges remain. Thai parents are encouraged to scrutinise product labels, opt for products with minimal or no unnecessary antimicrobial agents, and consult healthcare professionals if their children develop chronic skin problems. Schools and childcare facilities should consider guidance on safe cleaning protocols and personal care product selection to further minimise risk.
In conclusion, the latest research reinforces the need for caution regarding antimicrobial chemicals in everyday products. Thai readers, especially parents and education professionals, can take practical steps now: check ingredient lists, favour regular soap and water where possible, and consult trusted healthcare sources — rather than marketing claims — for guidance. Reducing triclosan exposure may help decrease the burden of childhood eczema and improve the overall health and wellbeing of the next generation.