What is it? Triclosan is a solid chemical compound that's powdery and naturally chlorinated with a slight odor. It blocks the activity of ENRs (enoyl-acyl carrier protein reductase), which is a fatty acid enzyme in the synthesis of bacteria. Because triclosan is soluble in ethanol and other basic chemical solutions, it's a popular ingredient in many products we use every day.

You’ll find it in: Soaps, toothpaste, shaving creams, mouthwash, acne treatments and cleaning products all contain triclosan. The most common uses of triclosan are in acne treatments and hand sanitizers. Specifically, for people with acne who're constantly fighting bacteria build-up, triclosan works to fight and prevent this build-up that becomes trapped in large pores, killing it on contact.

Products typically use between .15 and .30 percent triclosan; however, you'll find higher concentrations of triclosan used at hospitals. At nearly 2 percent, triclosan is sometimes used to treat people infected with staphylococcus aureus (staph infection).

Triclosan also shows up in some unexpected products like bedding sheets, children's toys, first aid items, computer products and some kitchen utensils.

Concerns over triclosan: Although triclosan is an effective ingredient in the battle against bacteria, some health advocates have urged that we avoid it. Concerns over its safety and effect on the environmental have shed negative light on triclosan.

This bacteria-fighting ingredient has been linked to dioxins, which are carcinogenic, potentially causing anything from a weakening of the immune system to serious birth defects, according to Beyond Pesticides.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that triclosan has negative effects on our environment and considers it a pesticide, especially when exposed to ultraviolet light, which converts triclosan into dioxins. Interaction with tap water could also be toxic for the skin, especially water with high concentrations of chlorine.

Because of the associated risks, pay attention to high levels of triclosan in cleaning agents. Some research has suggested triclosan might foster bacteria resistant to antibiotics. In addition, a University of Virginia study found that over-use of antimicrobial products is linked to some skin allergies. Recent reports and studies have also linked high levels of triclosan with serious skin irritations.

Not everyone agrees about triclosan's harmful impact , however. Dr. Wayne Swofford, vice president of Microban for research and development, tells the New York Times, "There are at least six peer-reviewed, published studies showing that you don't get resistant strains." He adds that there's an "infinitesimal" amount of triclosan in the environment. Also inconsequential, he says, is the combination of triclosan and chlorine in water.

Triclosan-free product picks: If you're looking for products without triclosan, avoid using items that are labeled "antimicrobial", "antibacterial" and/or "antifungal." Nowadays many companies offer "triclosan-free" products and use alternative ingredients to fight bacteria such as tea tree oil.

Here's a selection of our favorite triclosan-free products:

• Infused with certified organic white grape and pineapple juices, grape seed oil, aloe vera and jojoba beads, the Juice Beauty Exfoliating Cleanser is an excellent product that cleanses and exfoliates skin.
• Astara Antioxidant Light Moisturizer contains antioxidants, plant extracts and vitamins that provide protection against enviornmental elements, like sun damage and pollution.