DMDM hydantoin
DMDM hydantoin is a preservative that slowly releases formaldehyde to keep products free of microbes.
- Used in
- Cosmetic ingredient (INCI)
- Role
- Preservative
Other names IngrediLens checks with this entry
The app's database groups these label names, including names used on labels in other European languages, with DMDM hydantoin. Some are true synonyms, others are close relatives with the same allergen or concern.
Contains / relevant to
- Formaldehyde releasers: Relevant to people avoiding formaldehyde releasers. Preservatives that release formaldehyde over time.
- Contact dermatitis history: Common contact allergens from patch-test panels.
- Eczema / atopic dermatitis: Ingredients frequently reported as irritating to a compromised barrier.
What to look for on labels
- Cosmetic ingredient lists use INCI names, in descending order of concentration down to 1 %; ingredients below 1 % can follow in any order.
Questions and answers
Is DMDM hydantoin a formaldehyde releaser?
Yes. IngrediLens groups DMDM hydantoin with the preservatives that release formaldehyde over time.
Who should check for DMDM hydantoin?
People with a known formaldehyde or preservative contact allergy, often found by patch testing, usually check labels for these names.
Related
- Imidazolidinyl ureaImidazolidinyl urea is a formaldehyde-releasing preservative used in cosmetics.
- Diazolidinyl ureaDiazolidinyl urea is a formaldehyde-releasing preservative used in cosmetics.
- BronopolBronopol (2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol) is a preservative that can release formaldehyde.
- Quaternium-15Quaternium-15 is a formaldehyde-releasing preservative.
- How to read cosmetic INCI lists for sensitive skinGuide
Sources
Formaldehyde releasers are a known patch-test allergen group.
- European baseline patch-test series
- IngrediLens ingredient database (names, flags and notes shown on this page)
Label information, not medical advice. This page describes how an ingredient is named and labelled and how IngrediLens flags it; it cannot tell you whether a product is safe for you. Always read the label on the product itself and follow the advice of your doctor, allergist or dermatologist. If someone shows signs of anaphylaxis, use their adrenaline auto-injector if they have one and call emergency services.
Scan labels with IngrediLens
Point your iPhone camera at a food or cosmetic ingredient list and IngrediLens highlights the allergens and ingredients you chose to avoid, including other names like the ones on this page. Free to start, no account, and your data stays on your device.
Download on the App Store