While a public consultation is open about the possible restriction for use of an MIT/MCIT blend, now the MIT alone is concerned by the request for its safety evaluation sent to the SCCS. Reason for the request: the sensitizing and allergenic potential of this preservative, even if used alone.
Text of the Request for a scientific opinion on Methylisothiazolinone
Background
The Scientific Committee on Cosmetic Products and Non-Food Products (SCCNFP) adopted the first opinion in March 2003 on Methylisothiazolinone.
The SCCNFP adopted the second opinion on Methylisothiazolinone on April 2004 with the following conclusion:
The SCCNFP is of the opinion that the proposed use of Methylisothiazolinone as a preservative at a maximum concentration of 0.01% (100 ppm) in the finished cosmetic product does not pose a risk to the health of the consumer.
Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) was listed in Annex V/57 of Regulation 1223/2009 to be used as preservative at maximum concentration of 0.01% (100 ppm) in cosmetics products. The mixture of Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCIT) and Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) is also currently allowed as a preservative in all cosmetic products at a maximum concentration of 0.0015% (15 ppm) of a mixture in the ratio 3:1 of the two substances.
Several Member States raised concern on the use of Methylisothiazolinone (MIT), as data demonstrates that MIT is a sensitizer in animals and a contact allergen in human. The Commission received information on the issue of sensitizing potential of MIT starting from 2011.
According to this information both MCIT/MIT and MIT alone are used …
