Methylisothiazolinone (MI)
Methylisothiazolinone (MI) is a preservative that caused an epidemic of contact allergy in Europe. The EU bans it in leave-on cosmetics and limits it in rinse-off products.
What it is
It appeared in shampoos, shower gels, wet wipes and liquid soaps. On labels it appears as methylisothiazolinone.
How IngrediScan rates it
These levels come from the fixed rules in the IngrediScan app. A low level means the rules found little or no concern for that profile. It does not mean the ingredient is safe for everyone.
| Profile | Skin (cosmetics) |
|---|---|
| Adult | High |
| Child | High |
| Infant | High |
| Dog | No concern found |
| Cat | No concern found |
The app flags skin use because of the EU rules that followed the rise in contact allergy.
Basis of the ratings: ban, limit or official classification.
Possible concerns: Allergenic.
The app's rationale (exact text)
- Adult (skin), Child (skin), Infant (skin): Isothiazolinone epidemic: MI banned leave-on (2016/1198), 15 ppm rinse-off (2017/1224); MCI/MI 3:1 rinse-off only (2014/1003).
Rules and use
Banned in leave-on cosmetics (Regulation (EU) 2016/1198). In rinse-off products the limit is 15 ppm, or 0.0015 % (Regulation (EU) 2017/1224).
Read the guide: How to read an ingredient label
Sources
- Reg. (EU) 2016/1198: amendment of cosmetics Annex V
- Reg. (EU) 2017/1224: amendment of cosmetics Annex V
- Reg. (EU) 1003/2014: amendment of cosmetics Annex V
Related ingredients
The assessment is for information only. It does not replace the manufacturer's label or advice from a doctor or vet. Text recognition (OCR) can miss part of a label. No result does not mean the product is safe.