Chloroxylenol (PCMX)
كلوروكسيلينول (PCMX)
Phenolic antiseptic · CAS: 88-04-0
Effective antiseptic but a skin sensitiser + aquatic-toxic; no proven edge over soap for daily washing.
Why this verdict
GHS-hazardous (corrosive/oxidiser/sensitiser) but a legitimate active - flagged.
What It Is
The antiseptic active (chloroxylenol/PCMX) in Dettol-type disinfectants and antibacterial soaps.
The distinctive smell of Dettol - a genuinely effective antiseptic used in hospitals and homes. Two honest caveats: it's a skin sensitiser (a known allergy trigger for some), and it's toxic to aquatic life. And for everyday handwashing, regulators have found antibacterial actives like this offer no proven benefit over plain soap and water - so save it for when disinfection actually matters.
Evidence & Status
IARC Carcinogen Group
Not classified
EU Status
CLP-classified (H302, H315, H317 (skin sensitiser), H319 (+ aquatic)); signal word Warning.
US · FDA Status
EPA/CIR-reviewed where applicable
Cleaning & Hazard
Hazard signal
Warning
Hazard codes (GHS)
H302, H315, H317 (skin sensitiser), H319 (+ aquatic)
Environmental note
Toxic to aquatic life - surfaced as a fact.
Halal Status: Halal
Synthetic/plant-derived; no animal-fat or alcohol concern (surface use).
Worth Knowing
Also Known As
PCMX · para-chloro-meta-xylenol · 4-chloro-3 · 5-dimethylphenol · Dettol active
Primary Source
Evidence, not medical advice. You decide.
More In This Category
Get ORIA when it launches
Join the waitlist - we'll email you the moment ORIA lands. Then scan any product and get a clear verdict on every ingredient, in seconds.
Coming soon to iOS and Android