"Children with twice the triclosan concentration had, on average, a 23 percent higher chance of eczema compared with those with lower concentrations." 

"Children with twice the level of the antimicrobial chemical triclosan in their urine were 23 percent more likely to report eczema symptoms than those with lower concentrations, according to research published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives.

Triclosan was commonly found in antibacterial soaps and body washes before 2016, when the Food and Drug Administration restricted its use in consumer wash products after finding that it was no more effective than standard soap and water. However, according to the Cleveland Clinic, triclosan can still be found in some toothpastes, deodorants, cosmetics and detergents.

The recent study followed 347 mothers and their children from pregnancy through the children’s 12th birthdays. During that period, urinary triclosan concentrations in mother-child pairs were assessed through age 5, and then again at 8 and 12 years old. From ages 6 months to 12 years, caregivers (via survey) were asked about any allergy symptoms, including eczema, allergic rhinitis and wheezing."

Ian McMahan reports for the Washington Post July 21, 2025. [2]