Formaldehyde-releasing preservative. Slowly releases formaldehyde, which kills bacteria. Controversial due to formaldehyde's carcinogenicity via inhalation.
Topical application
DVery weak or conflicting data.
A preservative, not an active ingredient. CIR deemed safe at up to 0.2%, but contact allergy rates are higher than for phenoxyethanol and parabens. IARC classified formaldehyde as a Group 1 carcinogen (inhalation route). Systemic exposure from topical use is minimal, but consumers increasingly avoid products containing this ingredient.
DMDM Hydantoin is a synthetic preservative from the formaldehyde-donor group. INCI name – DMDM Hydantoin. In the presence of water it gradually releases formaldehyde at concentrations below 0.2%, suppressing growth of bacteria, fungi, and mold in cosmetic products. Where applied. Shampoos, shower gels, lotions, creams, intimate hygiene products. The maximum allowed concentration in the EU and US is 0.6%. In Japan it has been banned for leave-on products since 2015. Formaldehyde controversy. DMDM Hydantoin is classified as a formaldehyde donor. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) confirmed safety at concentrations up to 0.6%. However, in patients with contact dermatitis and formaldehyde hypersensitivity this ingredient often triggers flare-ups. A positive skin patch test to formaldehyde is reason to avoid products with DMDM Hydantoin, Quaternium-15, Imidazolidinyl urea, and other formaldehyde donors. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. The released formaldehyde concentration is clinically insignificant, but the European SCCS scientific committee revises the classification every 5 years. Alternative – products with phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin, benzoic acid. Who it suits and who not. Healthy skin without allergy – no problems. Patients with eczema, atopic dermatitis, contact sensitization – avoid.
Irritation potential
MediumAllergen risk
HighPregnancy
CautionFor sensitive skin
Formaldehyde is the number one contact allergen. People with sensitive skin and eczema are particularly prone to sensitization.
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora 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.
DMDM Hydantoin should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
DMDM Hydantoin suits: normal. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
DMDM Hydantoin has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
DMDM Hydantoin has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
Formaldehyde-releasing preservative.
Published: · updated:
Suitable for
Use with caution
The INCI name is DMDM Hydantoin.