Ingredient Directory
Medium ConcernVegan

Benzimidazole

1H-Benzimidazole

Safety Flags
Safety Notes

Parent heterocyclic ring system of numerous antifungal drugs; not typically used directly in cosmetics as a preservative; more commonly encountered as part of azole antifungal structures; limited cosmetic regulatory data.

Function & Common Use

Function

Preservative, Antimicrobial

Category

Preservatives

Common In

Primarily a pharmaceutical/agricultural intermediate; parent structure of antifungal azoles used in cosmetics (e.g., climbazole)

Origin

Synthetic

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

None

EU Cosmetics Reg.

None (not approved as cosmetic preservative)

US FDA (21 CFR)

None

Korea (MFDS)

None

Format restriction: Not specifically regulated as cosmetic ingredient

Baby restriction: No

Pregnancy: No

IFRA: No

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Benzimidazole safe to use in skincare?

Benzimidazole has a Medium concern rating. Parent heterocyclic ring system of numerous antifungal drugs; not typically used directly in cosmetics as a preservative; more commonly encountered as part of azole antifungal structures; limited cosmetic regulatory data.

Is Benzimidazole allowed in India?

Benzimidazole is currently classified as "Not listed" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is None.

What is Benzimidazole used for in cosmetics?

Benzimidazole functions as: Preservative, Antimicrobial. It is commonly found in: Primarily a pharmaceutical/agricultural intermediate; parent structure of antifungal azoles used in cosmetics (e.g., climbazole).

Can Benzimidazole cause an allergic reaction?

Yes. Benzimidazole has an allergen flag (No). If you have sensitive skin or known fragrance/contact allergies, patch-test products containing this ingredient before full use.

Is Benzimidazole safe for babies?

Benzimidazole has baby/child restrictions: No. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.

TCS Assessment
Medium Concern
Data Confidence
Low
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Not listed
EU
Not listed
US FDA
Not listed
Korea (MFDS)
Not listed
Australia (TGA)
Not listed
Canada (NHPID)
Not listed

EU Annex: None

Identifiers

CAS51-17-2
EC200-081-4

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