DMDM hydantoin
Category: Preservative
Brief description: DMDM hydantoin is a synthetic preservative used in a wide range of cosmetic products to prevent microbial growth.
Benefits: Provides effective antimicrobial protection, extending the shelf life of cosmetic products.
Skin type suitability/concerns: Suitable for most skin types; however, it may cause irritation in individuals with sensitive skin. It is also a formaldehyde-releasing preservative, which may be a concern for some consumers.
Target audience: All age groups and demographics, except those with known sensitivity to formaldehyde or DMDM hydantoin.
Chemical composition: DMDM hydantoin is a 1,3-dimethylol-5,5-dimethylhydantoin.
Physical aspect: White crystalline powder.
Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients.
Concentration: Typically used at 0.1-0.6% in cosmetic formulations.
Side effects/adverse reactions: Generally safe for use in cosmetics at recommended concentrations; however, it may cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals due to formaldehyde release. Formaldehyde has been classified as a known human carcinogen, but the exposure levels from cosmetics containing DMDM hydantoin are considered too low to pose a significant risk.
Regulatory status: Approved for use in cosmetics worldwide, with concentration restrictions.
Sustainability/ethical considerations: DMDM hydantoin is a synthetic ingredient, which can be considered less sustainable than some natural alternatives; however, its effectiveness at low concentrations reduces its overall environmental impact.
Brief description: DMDM hydantoin is a synthetic preservative used in a wide range of cosmetic products to prevent microbial growth.
Benefits: Provides effective antimicrobial protection, extending the shelf life of cosmetic products.
Skin type suitability/concerns: Suitable for most skin types; however, it may cause irritation in individuals with sensitive skin. It is also a formaldehyde-releasing preservative, which may be a concern for some consumers.
Target audience: All age groups and demographics, except those with known sensitivity to formaldehyde or DMDM hydantoin.
Chemical composition: DMDM hydantoin is a 1,3-dimethylol-5,5-dimethylhydantoin.
Physical aspect: White crystalline powder.
Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients.
Concentration: Typically used at 0.1-0.6% in cosmetic formulations.
Side effects/adverse reactions: Generally safe for use in cosmetics at recommended concentrations; however, it may cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals due to formaldehyde release. Formaldehyde has been classified as a known human carcinogen, but the exposure levels from cosmetics containing DMDM hydantoin are considered too low to pose a significant risk.
Regulatory status: Approved for use in cosmetics worldwide, with concentration restrictions.
Sustainability/ethical considerations: DMDM hydantoin is a synthetic ingredient, which can be considered less sustainable than some natural alternatives; however, its effectiveness at low concentrations reduces its overall environmental impact.
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