“DMDM Hydantoin?”Here!
Appears in 1 scanned product.
In personal care
A synthetic preservative that works by slowly releasing small amounts of formaldehyde into a formula to keep microbes from growing.
Why it’s used
Protects water-based products like shampoos and lotions from bacterial and fungal contamination over their shelf life.
What the evidence says
CIR has reviewed it as safe for use in cosmetics at the concentrations typically used. The formaldehyde-releasing mechanism is well understood, and the amounts released are generally far below levels associated with harm in that review. However, individuals with formaldehyde sensitivity can develop contact dermatitis from products containing it, which is a recognized allergen concern rather than a systemic toxicity one.
Context
Relevant mainly for leave-on products where skin contact is prolonged; rinse-off exposure is brief and lower risk. Regulatory limits on total formaldehyde-releaser content exist in some jurisdictions specifically because of the allergy angle, not general toxicity.
Rumors
DMDM hydantoin releases formaldehyde into the product and causes hair loss.
Not gradedhealth and safety evidence
Sources cited — no verdict reached.
What was measured is not yet noted.
- Investigation on formaldehyde release from preservatives in cosmetics. (Peer-reviewed) · Funding not checked
- Contact allergy to and allergic contact dermatitis from formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers: A clinical review and update. (Peer-reviewed) · Funding not checked
Who’s saying this
- ClassAction.org — a publisher: class action news; forwards user claims to partner class action attorneys
How we know who this is
- “ClassAction.org is a group of online professionals who are committed to exposing corporate wrongdoing and giving consumers the tools they need to fight back.” (their page)
- “Our connection to the industry is what sets us apart: we cover lawsuits and investigations that you won't read about anywhere else and, most importantly, help our users get in touch with the attorneys on the forefront of class action litigation.” (their page)