A new website and blog has been set up for people who suffer with an allergy to methylisothiazolinone (MI) – MI-Free.com. The site aims to help the thousands of sufferers deal with their sensitivity to the common preservative.
MI is commonly found in cosmetics, wet wipes, cleaning products, paints and air fresheners. Those with an allergy to the preservative often experience painful inflammation and rashes on the skin when exposed to it.
MI-Free.com is edited by health journalist and author Alex Gazzola, who specialises in allergies, intolerances and sensitivities. He said: “People diagnosed with an allergy to MI are typically told to avoid the ingredient before being sent on their way. But it’s not always easy to spot on cosmetic ingredients lists and some household products – such as laundry detergents and fabric softeners – are difficult to find in MI-free versions.”
The website offers a directory of safe brands and products, research news, and information on labelling laws in the UK, US, Canada and further afield.
Methylisothiazolinone was previously approved for use in cosmetics by the European Commission but Cosmetics Europe has since issued a recommendation that it no longer be used in leave-on skin care products.