On December 13, 2013, Cosmetics Europe announced their recommendation to the cosmetic and toiletry industry to discontinue further use of the antimicrobial, Methylisothiazolinone (MI) in all LEAVE ON cosmetics and personal care products.
Over the past several years, MI has made controversial headlines due to the increase in cases of contact allergies related to the use of products containing this ingredient. Earlier this year, Johnson & Johnson (in the UK) stated they would discontinue MI in new leave on products, reformulate existing leave on products over time but still include it in new rinse off products; all related to skin reactions experienced by UK consumers after using one of their products, Piz Buin 1 Day Long Sunscreen (which contained MI).
Now with the recent recommendation by Cosmetics Europe, all leave on products should not contain Methylisothiazolinone. Whether or not the companies will take action based on these recommendations, only time will show us.
This recommendation comes following discussions by Cosmetics Europe with the European Contact Dermatitis Society. They further recommend that companies take action immediately in the best interest of consumers and not wait for regulatory action to take place.
Personally, I am very glad such a giant like Cosmetics Europe took this step. Hopefully, this will start the change necessary to protect consumers reducing sensitization to MI as well as other nations who use it to re-address its safe use. Making changes in consumer products does cost money however, not making certain changes can also equate money spent on medical care, time taken off by the consumer as well as suffering on the consumer.
How does this make you feel?
Would you want companies in the US to ban MI in our leave on products as well? Please share your thoughts, I’d luv to hear from you.
Peace out skin ravers,
L