DMDM hydantoin is a preservative used in skincare and haircare products to prevent the growth of mold, fungi, yeast, and bacteria. It is a formaldehyde donor, which means it releases small amounts of formaldehyde over time. DMDM hydantoin is considered safe for use in cosmetics at current levels, but it can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, and in rare cases, hair loss. It is also a potential allergen and can cause contact dermatitis. DMDM hydantoin is a common allergen found in cosmetic products.
Antimicrobial properties: It helps prevent the growth of mold, fungi, yeast, and harmful bacteria, extending the shelf life of products.
Not suitable for people with formaldehyde allergies, chronic dermatitis, or sensitive skin.
Allergic reactions (itchy rash, swelling, hives, flaking and peeling skin) Potential cancer risk (at high doses) Hair loss (rare) Contact dermatitis
Avoid products with DMDM hydantoin if you have formaldehyde allergies, chronic dermatitis, or sensitive skin. Work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gloves and face coverings if you work with products containing DMDM hydantoin.
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Safe at levels of 0.074 percent or less.
Unacceptable: EWG VERIFIED products cannot contain this ingredient
DMDM hydantoin releases small amounts of formaldehyde, which is a known carcinogen. However, the amount of formaldehyde released from DMDM hydantoin is minimal and the risk of cancer from using products containing DMDM hydantoin is considered to be low. DMDM hydantoin is an antimicrobial formaldehyde releaser preservative. People exposed to such formaldehyde-releasing ingredients may develop a formaldehyde allergy or an allergy to the ingredient itself and its decomposition products. In the U.S., approximately 20% of cosmetics and personal care products contain a formaldehyde-releaser and the frequency of contact allergy to these ingredients is much higher among Americans compared to studies in Europe. DMDM hydantoin is a preservative that is used in cosmetics and personal care products to prevent the growth of mold, fungi, yeast, and bacteria. It is a formaldehyde donor, which means that it releases small amounts of formaldehyde over time. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, but the amount of formaldehyde released from DMDM hydantoin is considered to be safe for use in cosmetics. DMDM hydantoin is a potential allergen and can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and in rare cases, hair loss. People with formaldehyde allergies, chronic dermatitis, or sensitive skin should avoid using products containing DMDM hydantoin. DMDM hydantoin is a common allergen found in cosmetic products. It is a preservative that is used to prevent the growth of mold, fungi, yeast, and bacteria. DMDM hydantoin can cause allergic reactions, such as itchy rashes, swelling, hives, flaking or peeling skin, and contact dermatitis.