Is Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) Safe? What You Need to Know
Safety Score
Concern Level: very-high
Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) has significant safety concerns. We recommend avoiding products containing this ingredient.
What Is Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)?
A preservative used in liquid personal care and cleaning products. It has become a leading cause of contact allergies in recent years.
Commonly found in: shampoo, body wash, cleaning sprays, wet wipes
Safety Research & Evidence
A preservative used in liquid personal care and cleaning products. It has become a leading cause of contact allergies in recent years.
Regulatory status: Banned in EU leave-on cosmetics (2016); restricted in rinse-off products
Health Concerns
contact dermatitis
Evidence: StrongResearch indicates contact dermatitis may be associated with exposure to Methylisothiazolinone (MIT). Particularly concerning for people with eczema, children, those with sensitive skin.
neurotoxicity
Evidence: StrongResearch indicates neurotoxicity may be associated with exposure to Methylisothiazolinone (MIT). Particularly concerning for people with eczema, children, those with sensitive skin.
skin sensitization
Evidence: StrongResearch indicates skin sensitization may be associated with exposure to Methylisothiazolinone (MIT). Particularly concerning for people with eczema, children, those with sensitive skin.
Vulnerable Populations
Extra caution recommended for: people with eczema, children, those with sensitive skin
Safer Alternatives
| Alternative | Safety Score |
|---|---|
| Phenoxyethanol | 6/10 |
| Sodium Benzoate | 8/10 |
How to Avoid Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)
- Read ingredient labels carefully for "Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)" or its chemical synonyms
- Choose products with third-party certifications (EWG Verified, Made Safe)
- Consider alternatives like Phenoxyethanol or Sodium Benzoate
- Check the EWG Skin Deep database for product ratings
- Look for "Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)-free" labels on product packaging
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) safe for babies?
No, we recommend avoiding Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) in products used on or around babies due to their developing systems.
What are the safest alternatives to Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)?
Safer alternatives include Phenoxyethanol (safety score: 6/10), Sodium Benzoate (safety score: 8/10).
Is Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) banned in other countries?
Regulatory status: Banned in EU leave-on cosmetics (2016); restricted in rinse-off products
How do I know if my product contains Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)?
Check the full ingredient list on the product label. Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) may also appear under different chemical names. Using apps like EWG Healthy Living or Think Dirty can help identify it.
Related Safety Guides
References
- Schwensen JF et al. (2014). Methylisothiazolinone: an emerging allergen in cosmetics PMID: 24304230