A formaldehyde-releasing preservative.
What it is
DMDM hydantoin is a preservative that slowly releases small amounts of formaldehyde. It is listed in Annex V of the EU Cosmetics Regulation (allowed preservatives).
Where it is used
Shampoos, conditioners and other rinse-off products.
Limits of interpretation
The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.
Under EU rules, products whose formaldehyde release exceeds a set threshold must carry the warning 'releases formaldehyde'; people allergic to formaldehyde may react.
Functions
- Preservative
- Exclusively or mainly intended to inhibit the development of micro-organisms in the cosmetic product. All authorised preservatives are substances in the positive list of Annex V to the Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009.
EU regulation
EU · Annex V, entry 331,3-Bis(hydroxymethyl)-5,5-dimethylimidazolidine-2,4-dione
- Maximum concentration
- 0.6%
- As of
- 3 November 2026 · (EC) 2009/1223
Products with this ingredient (209)
- Relove Super Serum Foundation · Revolution
- Revolution Eye Bright Illuminating Under Eye Concealer · Revolution
- Shampoo Puntas Reconstruidas · Dove
- Shampoo Control Caida · Dove
- Shampoo Óleo Nutrición · Dove
- Crema para Peinar Óleo Nutrición · Dove
- Crema para Peinar Reconstrucción Completa · Dove
- Shampoo Hidratación Intensa · Dove
- Shampoo Reconstrucción Completa · Dove
- Crema Firming · Dove
- Men+Care Thickening Shampoo · Dove
- Dove Renewing Glow Body wash · Dove