For babies 6β12 months old, this preservative can cause skin allergies and irritation. It has been linked to rashes in infants, especially from wet wipes and products left on the skin. Other serious health risks are low, but skin reactions are the main problem.
Check product labels and avoid baby wipes, lotions, or creams that list methylchloroisothiazolinone or related names (for example methylisothiazolinone, MCI/MI, or products listing 'Kathon'). Prefer products made for sensitive baby skin or those that explicitly avoid this preservative. If you must use a product that contains it, choose rinse-off products (soap/shampoo) and rinse thoroughly, or do a small patch test on a tiny area and watch for redness for 48 hours. If your baby has a history of sensitive skin or eczema, avoid this ingredient entirely.
Do not use products that contain this ingredient as a regular leave-on treatment for babies (creams, lotions, or wipes). The warning comes from reported cases of allergic contact dermatitis in infants using wet wipes and from regulatory guidance and safety reviews (for example Health Canada and cosmetic safety panel findings). Watch for redness, swelling, blistering, persistent rash, or new worsening of eczema after use β stop use immediately and contact your pediatrician if you see these signs.
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This ingredient has the following documented risks:
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This ingredient may also be listed as:
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This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Methylchloroisothiazolinone or its alternative names.
Scientific research related to this ingredient:
These research articles provide scientific evidence about Methylchloroisothiazolinone safety and effects.
Methylchloroisothiazolinone is not recommended for 6-12 month old babies due to potential safety risks.
Could weaken or confuse immune system. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Linked to triggering or worsening eczema and similar skin conditions. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Can cause skin redness, itchiness, or rashesβespecially on sensitive baby skin. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Can be absorbed through the skin and get into the bloodstream. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Builds up in the body over time with repeated use. This is especially important for babies whose skin and systems are still developing.
Methylchloroisothiazolinone 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 6-12 month old babies. Use the age selector above to check other ages.
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