Dmdm hydantoin (inci)

Author:Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer

Last updated on: 29.10.2020

Synonym(s)

1,3-Bis(hydroxymethyl)-5,5-dimethylimidazolidine-2,4-dione; CAS number: 6440-58-0; imethyloldimethylhydantoin

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DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.

DMDM hydantoin, the dimethyloldimethylhydantoin, is an organic compound from the group of substances known as hydantoins, which is used in cosmetic formulations as a preservative (inhibits the development of microorganisms in cosmetic products and preserves them).

Note(s)This section has been translated automatically.

DMDM hydantoin is a formaldehyde donor. In equilibrium with hydantoin - up to 2% free formaldehyde is split off. Via this "formaldehyde effect", hydantoin has an antimycotic and antibacterial effect (effective against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria).
The general conditions for preservatives which may be used in cosmetics are laid down in the EC Cosmetics Regulation (1223/2009) Annex V.

Contact allergic reactions are to be expected in case of formaldehyde sensitization.

Authors

Last updated on: 29.10.2020

Author: Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer