Formalin and its uses in tissue stabilization. Formalin is listed as a material used to stabilize and preserve tissues and organisms to be dissected and preserved, as well as in mummification processes.  It is also used in pathological samples and tissue laboratories as it protects tissue samples from decomposition, sterilization and destruction of bacteria, and thus it is entered in the manufacture of sterilization materials such as toothpaste, soap and low-concentration shampoo due to its ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, as it acts as a preservative.