MI is currently authorized as a preservative in cosmetics products through Annex V of the Regulation at a maximum concentration of 0.01% (100ppm).
According to an SCCS opinion from December 2015, for rinse-off cosmetic products, a concentration of 15 ppm (0.0015%) MI is considered safe for the consumer from the view of induction of contact allergy.
It also states that the information provided does not support the safe use of MI as a preservative in leave-on hair cosmetic products up to a concentration limit of 100 ppm from the point of view of induction of contact allergy.
Public consultation
The recently announced public consultation puts forward the following proposed modifications to Annex V of the Cosmetics Regulation:
- Restricting the use of MI to 15ppm in rinse-off products, with the obligation of a "contains methylisothiazolinone" labelling.
- The use of MI as a preservative in hair leave-on cosmetic products is banned.
The consultation calls upon any interested parties to take part before the deadline on 1 July, 2016.
“The Commission invites interested parties, including national authorities, manufacturers of cosmetic products, producers of the substances concerned, and relevant industry and consumers associations, to submit their comments on the proposed measures and on their possible economic impact,” says the EC statement.
The EC says that in relation to the economic impact, the information/comments should refer, among other things, to:
- the feasibility of the proposed changes;
- competitiveness, markets and trade;
- direct and indirect costs imposed on business, including SMEs;
- innovation and research;
- specific regions, sectors or workers;
- non-EU countries and international relations;
- the macroeconomic environment.
It states that comments should be sent with the reference: 'Methylisothiazolinone in rinse-off cosmetic products - Public Consultation' by post or e-mail by 1 July 2016 at the latest.
The EC says the results of the consultation may then be published online.