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Moumoujus

DMDM HYDANIN.

Avoid CAS 6440-58-0 / PRESERVATIVE

DMDM Hydantoin is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent utilized in skincare formulations primarily as a preservative. It safeguards products against microbial growth by the controlled release of trace amounts of formaldehyde, thereby extending shelf life and maintaining product integrity.

Summary

preservative antimicrobial fungicide

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions by gradually releasing minimal levels of formaldehyde, which acts as a potent antimicrobial. This sustained release effectively inhibits the proliferation of fungi, yeast, and both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, preventing product contamination and degradation.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.074–1%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel deemed DMDM Hydantoin safe at current usage levels, with specific findings noting safety at 0.074%.
  2. 02 The EU Cosmetics Directive allows a maximum concentration of 0.6% in cosmetic products, necessitating a 'contains formaldehyde' label if released formaldehyde exceeds 0.05%.
  3. 03 In the USA, this ingredient is approved for use at concentrations up to 1%.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

DMDM Hydantoin is used as a preservative, not an active ingredient, thus it is not typically 'dusted' in the context of misleading ingredient percentages.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 4 – 10
0 7 14

Stability

Highly water-soluble and typically supplied as an aqueous solution, DMDM Hydantoin maintains stability and efficacy within a broad pH range of 4.0 to 10.0. For optimal integration and to prevent decomposition, it should be incorporated into formulations at temperatures below 40°C. It demonstrates compatibility with most cosmetic ingredients, including various surfactant types.

Conflicts

  • Ingredients that may elevate the rate of free formaldehyde release.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
0.6%
Sensitization risk High

While the CIR Expert Panel considers it safe at current usage levels (e.g., 0.074%), regulatory bodies like the FDA acknowledge its potential as an allergen for a subset of individuals. Approximately 8-9% of the U.S. population may experience an allergic reaction to formaldehyde. Formaldehyde, while released in minimal amounts from cosmetic DMDM Hydantoin, is a known allergen and a probable carcinogen at high, long-term exposures. California Prop 65 mandates warnings for products containing DMDM Hydantoin due to its potential to release formaldehyde.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy High
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Despite its effectiveness as a broad-spectrum preservative, DMDM Hydantoin carries a high risk of sensitization and formaldehyde concerns, prompting an 'avoid' rating for precision skincare formulations.

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