DMDM hydantoin is a common preservative found in cosmetics, building materials, and household products. It is added in small amounts as an antimicrobial agent, but some fear it could cause cancer when combined with other chemicals. It can cause skin irritations and is known to release formaldehyde, a carcinogen. Some individuals develop allergic reactions, and chemical workers can experience eye, skin, and lung irritation.
Dimethylol dimethyl hydantoin (DMDM hydantoin) is a common preservative ingredient found in the manufacture of cosmetics, building materials, and household products. The chemical compound is typically added to products in minute amounts as an antimicrobial agent. Some consumer advocates fear that when combined with other chemicals, the substance could cause cancer. Some individuals may develop skin irritations while using topical products containing this chemical formulation.
Other names for the compound include 1,2-demitylol-5,5 dimethyl hydantoin and dimethyl-2,4-imidazolidinedione. DMDM hydantoin is generally an organic compound that prevents bacterial, fungal and viral development. According to regulatory standards, products usually contain only 0.1% to 0.6% of the substance. Different physical forms of the compound include a colorless liquid, a crystalline powder, or white to gray flakes. The compound consists of dimethylhydantoin and formaldehyde.
Common cosmetic products containing DMDM hydantoin include hair conditioners, gels, and shampoos. Manufacturers also often use the substance in cream and lotion skin care products. Many industries incorporate the compound for its fungus and mold resistant properties. The substance could accompany the ingredients used for adhesives, inks and latex paints. Herbicides, paper, and photography supplies commonly contain this ingredient.
In addition to DMDM hydantoin, some cosmetic compounds may contain dimethicone, methylparaben and formaldehyde. Dimethicone is an oily emollient used to soften the skin. Methylparaben and formaldehyde are also antimicrobial preservatives. Formaldehyde, or CH2O, is a known carcinogen. Other names for the chemical are formalin, methyl aldehyde, morbicidal acid and oxymethylene.
DMDM hydantoin and similar substances that include diazolidynyl urea and quarternium-15 are of concern to consumer protection specialists because they have the ability to release formaldehyde. Proponents believe that this reaction occurs continuously and slowly, regardless of environmental factors. The formaldehyde then turns into a pungent and noxious gas. Industrialists claim that formaldehyde release only occurs when ingredients are exposed to high temperatures. Federal regulatory agencies limit the amount of formaldehyde-releasing agents products can contain, but environmentalists say there are no limitations on these potentially harmful chemical reactions.
Some individuals develop allergic skin reactions when exposed to this preservative. These irritations typically manifest as eczema or contact dermatitis. The chemical is usually easily removed from the skin by washing with soap and water. Healthcare professionals suggest that once irritation occurs, people refrain from using products containing this ingredient. DMDM hydantoin is known to possess irritant properties, and chemical workers can develop eye, skin, and lung irritation when working with the substance in large quantities.
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