
General Description
DMDM HYDANTOIN is a formaldehyde-releasing preservative widely used in the cosmetic and personal care industry to prevent microbial growth and extend product shelf life. It is effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria, yeasts, and molds, making it a reliable choice for maintaining the stability and safety of formulations. Typically used in low concentrations, DMDM HYDANTOIN ensures that water-based products remain free from harmful microbial contamination throughout their usage period.
Uses in the Cosmetics Industry
DMDM HYDANTOIN is incorporated into a variety of cosmetic and personal care products due to its preservative properties:
- Shampoos & Conditioners: Prevents bacterial and fungal growth in water-based haircare products.
- Lotions & Creams: Extends shelf life and maintains product integrity.
- Liquid Soaps & Cleansers: Protects against microbial contamination during storage and repeated consumer use.
- Makeup Products: Used in foundations, mascaras, and other water-containing formulations to ensure product safety.
- Baby Care Products: Applied in very low, regulated concentrations to prevent spoilage.
Its strong antimicrobial action and cost-effectiveness make DMDM HYDANTOIN a commonly used preservative in both mass-market and professional-grade formulations.
Hazards
While DMDM HYDANTOIN is effective as a preservative, there are important safety considerations:
- Skin Sensitization: May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially with prolonged exposure.
- Formaldehyde Release: As a formaldehyde donor, it releases small amounts of formaldehyde, which is a known sensitizer. Regulations strictly limit its concentration in cosmetics to ensure safety.
- Eye Irritation: Direct contact with concentrated material can cause irritation.
- Regulatory Restrictions: Its use is regulated in many regions, requiring careful formulation within approved limits.
When used according to cosmetic regulatory standards, DMDM HYDANTOIN is considered safe and effective for preserving formulations.
Storage & Stability
- Storage: Keep in a tightly sealed container, stored in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight.
- Stability: Stable in most cosmetic formulations, maintaining efficacy across a wide pH range.
DMDM HYDANTOIN is available in bulk and wholesale quantities, making it a practical choice for manufacturers looking for reliable and long-lasting preservation solutions.
CAS Number: 6440-58-0
INCI: DMDM Hydantoin
Composition:DMDM Hydantoin is an antimicrobial preservative composed of dimethylol dimethyl hydantoin, a formaldehyde-releasing compound effective against bacteria, yeast, and mold.
Purity Grade: Cosmetic Grade
Appearance: White crystalline powder or clear to slightly yellow viscous liquid (depending on form)
Solubility: Soluble in water; slightly soluble in alcohols
Preservation: Functions as a preservative itself; no additional preservation required for the raw material.
Storage: Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight.
Raw Material Sources: Synthetic origin from hydantoin derivatives and formaldehyde chemistry
Manufacture: Produced through the controlled condensation of dimethyl hydantoin with formaldehyde, followed by purification to cosmetic grade.
Animal Testing: Not tested on animals (depending on supplier policy)
GMO: GMO-free (synthetic raw material, no plant origin)
Vegan: Vegan (does not contain or derive from animal sources)
Proposition:DMDM Hydantoin complies with global cosmetic regulations including EU Cosmetic Regulation and U.S. FDA guidelines for preservative use within permitted concentrations.
Warning:
- Releases small amounts of formaldehyde, which may cause skin sensitization in some individuals.
- Avoid inhalation of dust or vapors.
- Use gloves and protective eyewear when handling raw material.
- For external use in cosmetic formulations only; not for ingestion.
THE STORY OF DMDM HYDANTOIN
DMDM Hydantoin: The Reliable Preservative for Microbial Protection
DMDM Hydantoin is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative used in skincare, haircare, and personal-care formulations to prevent bacterial and fungal contamination. Known for its effectiveness even at low concentrations, it ensures long shelf life and product safety in shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and rinsable formulations.
Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservative Engineered for Long-Lasting ProtectionA
DMDM Hydantoin is a formaldehyde-releasing preservative, meaning it gradually releases very small amounts of formaldehyde to inhibit microbial growth.
It is stable, water-soluble, and highly compatible with surfactants and emulsion systems.
TRCkem supplies high-purity, cosmetic-grade DMDM Hydantoin, suitable for rinse-off and select leave-on products following regulatory guidelines.
Protect. Stabilize. Preserve.
Core benefits in personal-care formulations:
✅ Broad-spectrum protection against bacteria, yeast & mold
✅ Highly effective in surfactant-rich systems like shampoos
✅ Works well in low levels, reducing preservative load
✅ Maintains product color, texture & fragrance stability
Used in: shampoos, conditioners, liquid soaps, body lotions, gels, scrubs, and many rinse-off formulations.
Regulated, Effective & Best for Rinse-Off Systems
• Typical use level: 0.1–0.6% depending on formula
• Water-soluble; add to cool-down (below 50°C) to avoid degradation
• Highly compatible with surfactants, emulsifiers & glycols
• Approved in many regions for rinse-off products; restricted in certain leave-on types
• Follow global regulatory guidelines for formaldehyde releasers
• Store cool, sealed, and protected from contamination
• Stable across wide pH range: pH 3–9
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is DMDM Hydantoin?
DMDM Hydantoin is a preservative commonly used in personal care and cosmetic formulations. It works by releasing a small, safe amount of formaldehyde to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold, thereby extending product shelf life.
2. What is the CAS Number and INCI Name of DMDM Hydantoin?
CAS Number: 6440-58-0
INCI Name: DMDM Hydantoin
3. What are the benefits of using DMDM Hydantoin in personal care products?
Effective Preservation: Protects formulations against microbial contamination.
Longer Shelf Life: Extends the stability of personal care products.
Wide Compatibility: Works well in both rinse-off and leave-on products.
Cost-Effective: Requires only small amounts for preservation.
4. In which types of products is DMDM Hydantoin commonly used?
Shampoos & Conditioners
Hair Gels & Styling Products
Creams & Lotions
Liquid Soaps & Body Washes
Makeup & Sunscreens
5. Is DMDM Hydantoin safe for use in cosmetics and personal care?
Yes, DMDM Hydantoin is considered safe when used at regulated concentrations as per cosmetic safety guidelines. However, it should always be formulated within industry-recommended limits.
6. Can DMDM Hydantoin cause skin irritation?
In most people, DMDM Hydantoin is well tolerated. However, individuals with sensitive skin may experience mild irritation or allergic reactions due to its formaldehyde-releasing property. A patch test or dermatological testing is recommended.