Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile
2-(Dibromomethyl)-2-(cyanomethyl)malononitrile; 1,2-Dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane
Potent skin sensitizer responsible for widespread contact dermatitis epidemic in Europe in early 2000s; banned in EU leave-on products from 2004 and all products from 2008; also known as Euxyl K 400 component (with phenoxyethanol); if found in products sold in EU or India, consider it non-compliant.
Function & Common Use
Preservative, Antimicrobial
Preservatives
BANNED IN EU - formerly in wet wipes, shampoos, lotions; still permitted in US in some products
Synthetic
Concentration Limits
N/A (banned)
N/A (fully banned since 2008)
0.025% (leave-on); 0.1% (rinse-off)
N/A (banned)
Format restriction: BANNED in EU in all cosmetic products since Commission Decision 2008/421/EC (effective 15 September 2008 for leave-on; fully banned by 15 June 2008 for rinse-off)
Baby restriction: Yes
Pregnancy: No
IFRA: No
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile safe to use in skincare?
Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile has a High concern rating. Potent skin sensitizer responsible for widespread contact dermatitis epidemic in Europe in early 2000s; banned in EU leave-on products from 2004 and all products from 2008; also known as Euxyl K 400 component (with phenoxyethanol); if found in products sold in EU or India, consider it non-compliant.
Is Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile allowed in India?
Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile is currently classified as "Banned" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is N/A (banned).
What is Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile used for in cosmetics?
Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile functions as: Preservative, Antimicrobial. It is commonly found in: BANNED IN EU - formerly in wet wipes, shampoos, lotions; still permitted in US in some products.
Can Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile cause an allergic reaction?
Yes. Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile has an allergen flag (Yes). If you have sensitive skin or known fragrance/contact allergies, patch-test products containing this ingredient before full use.
Is Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile safe for babies?
Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile has baby/child restrictions: Yes. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
EU Annex: Annex II (banned) - banned in leave-on since Commission Decision 2004/210/EC; banned in all cosmetics (including rinse-off) since Commission Decision 2008/421/EC
Identifiers
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