
THE STORY OF IMIDAZOLIDINYL UREA
Imidazolidinyl Urea: The Reliable Preservative for Long-Lasting Product Protection
Imidazolidinyl Urea is a widely used broad-spectrum cosmetic preservative that protects formulas from bacteria, mold, and yeast.
Stable, efficient, and compatible with most cosmetic bases, it is commonly used in creams, lotions, shampoos, liquid soaps, and skin-care products to ensure product safety and long shelf life.
A Urea-Based Preservative Engineered for Antimicrobial Stability
Imidazolidinyl Urea is produced by combining imidazolidine compounds with urea, forming an antimicrobial ingredient effective at low levels.
Key characteristics:
• Works across broad pH ranges
• Compatible with surfactants & emulsifiers
• Effective even at low temperatures
TRCkem supplies high-purity cosmetic-grade Imidazolidinyl Urea suited for personal-care applications.
Preserve. Protect. Maintain.
Imidazolidinyl Urea ensures long-lasting product stability:
✅ Provides broad-spectrum antimicrobial protection
✅ Extends shelf life of water-based products
✅ Prevents bacterial contamination after repeated use
✅ Highly compatible with emulsions & surfactant systems
Used in: moisturizers, creams, shampoos, cleansers, soaps, baby-care products, and body lotions.
Efficient, Easy to Use & Globally Accepted Preservative
• Typical use level: 0.2–0.6%
• Most effective in pH 3–9
• Add during cool-down phase (<50°C)
• Compatible with other preservatives (Parabens, Phenoxyethanol)
• Globally approved for rinse-off & leave-on products
• Store in cool, dry conditions away from moisture
• Safe for cosmetic use when used within regulatory limits
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is Imidazolidinyl Urea?
Imidazolidinyl Urea is a preservative used in personal care and cosmetic formulations to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold. It is a formaldehyde-releasing compound that helps extend shelf life and maintain product safety, especially in water-based formulations.
2. What is the INCI name and CAS number of Imidazolidinyl Urea?
CAS Number: 39236-46-9
INCI Name: Imidazolidinyl Urea
3. What are the main benefits of using Imidazolidinyl Urea in personal care products?
Provides broad-spectrum antimicrobial protection
Effective against bacteria, yeast, and molds
Increases the shelf life of water-containing products
Works synergistically with other preservatives
Stable in a wide pH range (typically 3 to 9)
4. What types of personal care products typically contain Imidazolidinyl Urea?
This preservative is commonly used in:
Moisturizers and lotions
Shampoos and conditioners
Liquid soaps and cleansers
Makeup products (foundation, powders)
Sunscreens and other topical products
5. Is Imidazolidinyl Urea safe for cosmetic use?
Yes, it is approved for cosmetic use in many countries, including the US (FDA) and EU, with maximum concentration limits. However, since it is a formaldehyde-releasing agent, its use is restricted in leave-on products in some regions, and it's important to comply with local regulations.
6. What is the recommended usage level of Imidazolidinyl Urea in formulations?
Typically used at 0.3% to 0.6% in cosmetic formulations. The maximum allowed concentration varies by region, and regulatory guidelines must be followed.
7. Is Imidazolidinyl Urea suitable for sensitive skin?
While generally well-tolerated, sensitive skin users or those with formaldehyde allergies may experience irritation. For sensitive skin products, alternative preservative systems are often considered.
8. Is Imidazolidinyl Urea considered natural or synthetic?
Imidazolidinyl Urea is a synthetic preservative. It is not considered natural or organic and is typically avoided in clean beauty or natural-certified formulations.