METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE

METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE (That’s a mouthful!)

Aka: MIT

Found in: Most commercial shampoos, conditioners, hair colours, body washes, hand soaps and dishwashing soaps.

Used to: Extend the product’s shelf life as the chemical is a powerful preservative that’s antibacterial and antifungal.

Could be harmful: If you have sensitive skin and often use products containing MIT, it can cause dermatitis, severe itching and in more serious cases, nerve damage.  

Although MIT is used in low dosages in cosmetic products the widespread use creates a concern of a build-up of exposure to this chemical.  More studies need to be done on the chronic exposure of MIT, even at low doses.