For school-age children (5 years and older) DMDM Hydantoin is a moderate concern. It can cause skin irritation or allergic rashes in some kids and may release small amounts of formaldehyde. Children with sensitive skin, eczema, or a history of allergies are at higher risk.
If you use a product with this ingredient on a child 5 or older: do a small patch test first on a small area of skin and wait 24–48 hours; avoid using it on broken or sore skin; choose products labeled "formaldehyde-free" or use gentler preservative systems for kids with sensitive skin; stop use and wash the area if redness or rash appears and see your pediatrician if it looks serious.
Watch for rash, redness, itching, or swelling where the product was applied — these are signs of an allergy or irritation. The warning comes from safety reviews that identify this ingredient as a human skin allergen/irritant and note contamination concerns with formaldehyde (Cosmetic safety reviews, Japan Ministry of Health, international evaluations). Also note some countries restrict its use in certain cosmetics. If your child has eczema or known skin allergies, avoid products that contain this ingredient.
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This ingredient has the following documented risks:
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This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Dmdm Hydantoin or its alternative names.
Scientific research related to this ingredient:
These research articles provide scientific evidence about Dmdm Hydantoin safety and effects.
Use caution with Dmdm Hydantoin for 5+ year old children. Some safety concerns have been identified.
Could weaken or confuse immune system.
Can cause skin redness, itchiness, or rashes—especially on sensitive baby skin.
Connected to cancer risk with long-term or repeated exposure.
Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries.
Can be absorbed through the skin and get into the bloodstream.
Linked to triggering or worsening eczema and similar skin conditions.
Dmdm Hydantoin is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.
The appropriate age depends on the specific ingredient properties and concentration. This analysis is for 5+ year old children. Use the age selector above to check other ages.
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