Known contact allergens (methylisothiazolinone, fragrance mix, formaldehyde releasers) found in a high proportion of consumer cosmetics on the Swedish market

This study surveyed 516 cosmetic and household products on the Swedish market for the presence of preservatives and fragrance ingredients known to cause contact allergy. The authors found that known sensitizers including methylisothiazolinone (MI), methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI), formaldehyde releasers, and fragrance allergens were present in a high proportion of products, including those marketed to sensitive skin. The study contributed to the EU's subsequent restriction of MI in leave-on cosmetics and to broader consumer awareness of allergens in personal care products.

Swedish Research Council for Health, Working Life and Welfare