What is Methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT): Chemical Free Living
What is methylchloroisothiazolinone?
Methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT) is a preservative that is found in a wide array of liquid cosmetics, personal care products and cleaning products on the market today [1]. Its function is to inhibit the growth of bacteria [1] [2].
What products is methylchloroisothiazolinone in?
Methylchloroisothiazolinone is found in a multitude of products, including those claiming to be “natural”. The list includes cleaning products, detergents, lotions, sunscreens, shampoos, conditioners, hair coloring, body washes, mascara, shaving cream, make-up remover, liquid soaps, and baby products including wipes, lotions and shampoos [1].
How to tell if a product has methylchloroisothiazolinone
Methylchloroisothiazolinone may be listed as other names on product labels [2] [4] including:
Methylchloroisothiazolinone
3(2H)-Isothiazolone, 5-chloro-2-methyl-
5-Chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one
4-Isothiazolin-3-one, 5-chloro-2-methyl-
5-Chloro-2-methyl-2H-isothiazol-3-one
5-chloro-2-methyl-
4-Isothiazolin-3-one
Kathon CG 5243 [2].
Risks associated with methylchloroisothiazolinone
CMIT has been linked to allergic reactions, skin, eye & lung irritation and has been restricted for use in the EU, Canada & Japan. The European Society of Contact Dermatitis has recommended that CMIT no longer be used in leave-on skin products [1]. In Japan, the concentration of these ingredients are restricted in cosmetics [2]. Health issues commonly linked to CMIT include: skin reactions (it is a contact allergen), skin sensitization, painful rashes and lung irritation. [1] [2].