Hexamidine Diisethionate
4,4'-(Hexamethylenedioxy)dibenzamidine bis(2-hydroxyethanesulfonate)
Broad-spectrum cationic antimicrobial effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, moulds and yeasts. Rare contact allergy and anaphylaxis reports documented. EU Annex V maximum 0.1%. Canada maximum 0.10%. Australia AICIS human health tier II assessment completed.
Function & Common Use
Preservative / Antimicrobial / Anti-dandruff
Preservative / Antimicrobial
Toners, serums, lotions, cleansers, anti-dandruff shampoos
Synthetic
Concentration Limits
Not verified in source checked
0.1% in leave-on and rinse-off products (Annex V)
No FDA maximum established; typical use 0.03-0.1%
Consistent with EU 0.1% limit; exact Korea limit not verified in source checked
Baby restriction: None formally stated; caution advised for infant products given rare sensitisation reports
Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hexamidine Diisethionate safe to use in skincare?
Hexamidine Diisethionate has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Broad-spectrum cationic antimicrobial effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, moulds and yeasts. Rare contact allergy and anaphylaxis reports documented. EU Annex V maximum 0.1%. Canada maximum 0.10%. Australia AICIS human health tier II assessment completed.
Is Hexamidine Diisethionate allowed in India?
Hexamidine Diisethionate is currently classified as "Permitted cosmetic preservative under Cosmetics Rules 2020" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is Not verified in source checked.
What is Hexamidine Diisethionate used for in cosmetics?
Hexamidine Diisethionate functions as: Preservative / Antimicrobial / Anti-dandruff. It is commonly found in: Toners, serums, lotions, cleansers, anti-dandruff shampoos.
Can Hexamidine Diisethionate cause an allergic reaction?
Yes. Hexamidine Diisethionate has an allergen flag (Rare contact and photoallergic reactions reported; anaphylactic reactions possible in rare cases). If you have sensitive skin or known fragrance/contact allergies, patch-test products containing this ingredient before full use.
Is Hexamidine Diisethionate safe for babies?
Hexamidine Diisethionate has baby/child restrictions: None formally stated; caution advised for infant products given rare sensitisation reports. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
EU Annex: Annex V
Identifiers
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