Methylisothiazolinone

A strong preservative.

What it does

Stops bacteria from growing in water-based products like shampoo.

Good to know

A common cause of skin allergy. US dermatologists named it Allergen of the Year in 2013. The EU, UK, Canada and Australia now allow it only in rinse-off products, up to 0.0015%.

Often found in: Shampoos, Anti-dandruff shampoos, Shower gels, Hair conditioners

Around the world

United States: No FDA limit. The FDA doesn't approve cosmetic ingredients before sale. Source
EU and UK: Rinse-off products only, max 0.0015% (on its own or mixed with MCI). Not allowed in leave-on products. Source
Canada: Rinse-off products only, max 0.0015%, including any MCI mixed in. Not allowed in leave-on products. Source
Australia: Allowed in rinse-off cosmetics up to 0.0015%. Otherwise it's controlled (Schedule 6). Source

Sources

Methylisothiazolinone: 2013 Allergen of the Year (Dermatitis, 2013) (Medical)
SCCS opinion: Methylisothiazolinone (MI) (2015) (Independent)

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