What it is
A chlorinated isothiazolinone preservative, typically blended with MI in a 3:1 ratio (kathon CG).
What it does
Potent antimicrobial in rinse-off cosmetics, wipes, and industrial water systems.
Why it’s a concern
Blamed for epidemic contact allergy rates through the 1980s. Remains restricted in the EU to rinse-off products at 15 ppm with the MI blend. Continued use in wipes and lotions has been linked to severe allergic facial dermatitis cases.
Also known as
MCICMITkathon CG (trade)
CAS numbers
26172-55-4
Commonly found in
shampoobody washhousehold cleaners
Safer alternatives
- sodium benzoate
- potassium sorbate
- phenoxyethanol
Sources
- SCCS Opinion SCCS/1238/09