Is Imidazolidinyl Urea Safe? What You Need to Know
Safety Score
Concern Level: very-high
Imidazolidinyl Urea has significant safety concerns. We recommend avoiding products containing this ingredient.
What Is Imidazolidinyl Urea?
A formaldehyde-releasing preservative used in cosmetics. The second most common cosmetic preservative causing contact dermatitis.
Commonly found in: lotions, baby products, shampoo, eye shadow
Safety Research & Evidence
A formaldehyde-releasing preservative used in cosmetics. The second most common cosmetic preservative causing contact dermatitis.
Regulatory status: CIR safe at current levels; EU restricts formaldehyde release to 0.2%
Health Concerns
formaldehyde releaser
Evidence: StrongResearch indicates formaldehyde releaser may be associated with exposure to Imidazolidinyl Urea. Particularly concerning for formaldehyde-sensitive individuals, children, eczema patients.
contact allergen
Evidence: StrongResearch indicates contact allergen may be associated with exposure to Imidazolidinyl Urea. Particularly concerning for formaldehyde-sensitive individuals, children, eczema patients.
skin sensitization
Evidence: StrongResearch indicates skin sensitization may be associated with exposure to Imidazolidinyl Urea. Particularly concerning for formaldehyde-sensitive individuals, children, eczema patients.
Vulnerable Populations
Extra caution recommended for: formaldehyde-sensitive individuals, children, eczema patients
Safer Alternatives
| Alternative | Safety Score |
|---|---|
| Phenoxyethanol | 6/10 |
How to Avoid Imidazolidinyl Urea
- Read ingredient labels carefully for "Imidazolidinyl Urea" or its chemical synonyms
- Choose products with third-party certifications (EWG Verified, Made Safe)
- Consider alternatives like Phenoxyethanol
- Check the EWG Skin Deep database for product ratings
- Look for "Imidazolidinyl Urea-free" labels on product packaging
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Imidazolidinyl Urea safe for babies?
No, we recommend avoiding Imidazolidinyl Urea in products used on or around babies due to their developing systems.
What are the safest alternatives to Imidazolidinyl Urea?
Safer alternatives include Phenoxyethanol (safety score: 6/10).
Is Imidazolidinyl Urea banned in other countries?
Regulatory status: CIR safe at current levels; EU restricts formaldehyde release to 0.2%
How do I know if my product contains Imidazolidinyl Urea?
Check the full ingredient list on the product label. Imidazolidinyl Urea may also appear under different chemical names. Using apps like EWG Healthy Living or Think Dirty can help identify it.
Related Safety Guides
References
- de Groot AC et al. (2010). Contact sensitization to formaldehyde-releasing preservatives PMID: 21291366