DMDM Hydantoin
DMDM Hydantoin
Also known as: Dimethylol Dimethyl Hydantoin · Glydant
Preservative
“A formaldehyde-releasing preservative — effective but increasingly avoided.”
What it does
DMDM Hydantoin is a formaldehyde-releasing preservative (FRP) that works by slowly releasing small amounts of formaldehyde to prevent microbial growth. Formaldehyde is a known skin sensitiser and potential carcinogen. While approved at regulated concentrations, DMDM Hydantoin has become increasingly controversial and many brands have voluntarily removed it.
Benefits
- Effective broad-spectrum preservative
How to layer
☀️ Morning routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
SPF
🌙 Evening routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
Face Oil
After cleansing, before moisturiser
Good for
Normal skinOily skin
Heads up
- ⚠Releases formaldehyde — a known skin sensitiser and potential carcinogen
- ⚠A common cause of allergic contact dermatitis
- ⚠Increasingly avoided by clean beauty brands
- ⚠EU has tightened restrictions; some jurisdictions are moving to ban it
How to use
Best avoided in leave-on products, particularly if you have sensitive or reactive skin.
Typical concentration: ≤0.6% in leave-on products (EU limit)