We've all heard lately about the use of the controversial ingredient Methylisothiazolinone in cosmetic, household and personal care products.
A few weeks ago, I wrote an article highlighting why (missed it? Read it here).
Earlier in 2013, BBCOne's television series Watchdog (in the UK) reported cases of individuals suffering reactions to a UK product PIZ BUIN 1 Day Long Sunscreen.
After that report, more than 150 consumers came out saying they also experienced similar reactions with use of the sunscreen.
As a result, the makers of the sunscreen, Johnson & Johnson announced they would reformulate the sunscreen and starting in 2014, the new formulation would not contain Methylisothiazolinone.
(In my mind I'm thinking "this is happening in the UK, well what about the US??")
Yeah, so what about the products in the US?
So far, no word regarding intent of J & J products here in the US related to Methylisothiazolinone.
For UK J& J products, the company says it has stopped use of MI on new leave on products, and existing leave on products will be reformulated over time. They will however continue to use MI on new rinse off products!
Since present research data hasn't warranted any regulation changes for MI in the US, the choice lies in the hands of companies, such as Johnson & Johnson to actively choose other methods of preservation in their formulations.
After searching the Johnson& Johnson websites, I did find some products still listing MI in the ingredients. They include:
Johnson & Johnson Baby Daily Face and Body Lotion SPF 40
Johnson’s Buddies No More Tangles Detangler
Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 15
Only time will tell if J & J will change their formulations for US products. Perhaps if enough consumers express their concerns, change might happen.
Of note, if you should experience any skin reactions after using any skin care product (not just J & J products), you should report it to the FDA’s adverse effects reporting program, MedWatch.
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/
What’s your take? Do you feel J&J should do the same and reformulate US products? I for one sure do! Leave me your comments below.
peace out skin ravers.
L