Sources of Exposure :
Description :
Methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone are preservatives active against bacteria, yeast and fungi. It is used in the manufacture of water-based cosmetics and personal care products.
Sources of Exposure: Personal care products, cosmetics, home cleaning products, detergents, paper coatings
Health Impacts: Methylisothiazolinone causes skin irritation, allergies, and contact dermatitis. The EU determined it is not safe for the consumer in any leave-on products. Both methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone are classified as sensitizers and are among the most frequent causes of preservative contact allergy.
Health Concerns
Contaminants:
Banned/restricted lists:
Publications Office of the EU, Scientific Committee on Cosmetic Products and Non-Food Products: Methylisothiazolinone (Accessed December 2020)
Burnett, C.L., 2010Lundov, M.D. et al., 2011