Cosmetics Europe, the European personal care professional association, published this recommendation to the industry on December 13: it should discontinue the use of the preservative Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) in leave-on skin cosmetics including cosmetic wet wipes. This standpoint was adopted following the outbreak of adverse reactions provoked by this ingredient.
Do not await regulatory intervention under the Cosmetics Regulation, and take voluntary action in implementing this change as soon as feasible.
This, in a nutshell, is the message that Cosmetics Europe is sending the whole industry.
The association explains the recommendation was decided upon "following close analysis of clinical data, market feedback and Quantitative Risk Assessment analysis". What was found was an increase in adverse skin reactions and sensitization to Methylisothiazolinone.
Hence this appeal to manufacturers to discontinue its use in leave-on skin cosmetics including cosmetic wet wipes.
The recommendation is made in the interests of consumer health, Cosmetics Europe adds in their release.
"The industry experts concluded that there was evidence to suggest a relationship between the use of leave-on skin products, including cosmetic wet wipes containing MIT, and the induction of contact allergy and allergic contact dermatitis".
The professional association concludes:
"the removal of MIT from leave-on skin products including cosmetic wet wipes is expected to significantly decrease the incidence of induction of contact allergy to MIT".
To Cosmetics Europe, this measure is essential: they remind us that "consumer health and safety is of paramount importance to the cosmetics industry."
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