When we talk about personal care products, we often mention that they end up flowing down your drain to later enter waterways. While it might sound like a scare tactic, a new research study gives us even more proof that it can happen. The antibacterial chemical triclosan has been found in the blood of bottlenose dolphins living in areas where treated sewage is released.

Triclosan, a registered pesticide, is found in some toothpastes, soaps and deodorants to help control bacteria. For the same reason, garbage bags, cutting boards and socks are often treated with the chemical as well. Home sinks are the main route for triclosan to enter waterways. But even though 95 percent is removed during water treatment, it’s one of the most commonly found contaminants in rivers and estuaries near treatment plants.

This study measured levels in dolphins from South Carolina and Florida living in a harbor, a lagoon, an estuary and rivers. At this point, researchers don’t know how the accumulation affects the dolphins’ health, but it’s certainly an indication that we need to consider the bigger picture when making buying decisions. Triclosan has also been found to accumulate in fish as well as urine, blood and breast milk of humans. That can’t be healthy, right? If you don’t check ingredient lists for triclosan already, you should start now. There are plenty of triclosan-free toothpastes, soaps and other natural personal care prodcuts to choose from.

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