Benzisothiazolinone
A preservative from the isothiazolinone family, kin to the notorious methylisothiazolinone. A strong contact allergen. EU rules do not allow it in leave-on cosmetics; it shows up mainly in household products and rinse-off items.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Medium
- Allergen risk
- High
- Pregnancy
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Normal, Oily
- Use with caution
- Sensitive, Dry
Frequently asked questions
Is Benzisothiazolinone safe during pregnancy?
Benzisothiazolinone should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Benzisothiazolinone for?
Benzisothiazolinone suits: normal, oily. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Can Benzisothiazolinone irritate the skin?
Benzisothiazolinone has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Can Benzisothiazolinone cause an allergic reaction?
Benzisothiazolinone has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
What is Benzisothiazolinone and what does it do in cosmetics?
A preservative from the isothiazolinone family, kin to the notorious methylisothiazolinone.
What's the INCI name for Benzisothiazolinone?
The INCI name is Benzisothiazolinone. It may also appear as: BIT, 1,2-Benzisothiazolin-3-one.
See Benzisothiazolinone in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
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