Itchy M’s
A new category has been added to the Is it CG? app: Itchy M’s.
This new category includes the ingredients Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI) and Methylisothiazolinone (MI), which are preservatives that combat bacteria, yeast, and fungi to extend the shelf life of the product. Preservatives prevent problems like discoloration, unpleasant odors or product breakdown, and ultimately make the product safer to use. The downside is that many people are allergic to these particular preservatives which can have adverse effects on the skin.
MCI and MI are technically CG approved because they do not cause build up or dryness. However, they produce a “Caution” result in the app because this potential allergic reaction can lead to a dry, flaky, itchy scalp. If you have sensitive skin or previously had an allergic reaction, I would avoid products that contain these ingredients.
These ingredients only affect those that are allergic to them, so if you have used a product in the past that contain these ingredients and did not see any negative side effects then you are good to go! It’s just one more thing to double check in the ingredient list (like there aren’t enough things already to look out for).
Products that promote scalp health (Itchy M free)
Is it CG?
The easiest way to analyze all of the different ingredients in your hair products is to use the Is It CG? app. Simply paste the ingredients into the app and it will automatically analyze them and provide a breakdown of what each ingredient will do for your hair. Good or Bad!
Sources:
- http://mi-free.com/
- http://www.safecosmetics.org/get-the-facts/chemicals-of-concern/methylisothiazolinone/
- https://www.cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/methylisothiazolinone-and-methylchloroisothiazolinone
- https://www.healthline.com/health/methylchloroisothiazolinone
If you notice any information in this post that is either outdated or misrepresented, please let me know in the comments or by contacting us.
