When we hear the word METH, we often associate it with the crystal drug and related addiction. The addicts ‘ON METH’ smoke, inhale, snort, ingest, inject. This abused substance’s full name is Methamphetamine. It is a scary drug.
This article is about another meth. Methylisothiazolinone. Not only is it a challenge to pronounce: meth’-ill-eyes’-oh-thigh’-ah-zoh’-li-known, it is also a challenge to avoid. Let us look at the What, Why, Where, When, and Who of this additive.
WHAT it is Meth
Methylisothiazolinone aka: MIT or MI is a possible neurotoxin, with potential health risks to unborn babies. Allergic reactions have been known to occur. Contact dermatitis and skin irritations. It may have a negative effect on the lungs. This substance is scary. It is used in skin care. Below is a list of aliases. No one is expected to learn them. The list is overwhelming, but it does illustrate the enormity of our confusion and how easily we are duped. What you need to know is to shop carefully for your skin care. Be concerned. MIT is in the Isothiazolinone Family of Products.
The aliases are
5-Chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one
2-Methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one
2-Methyl-3(2H)-isothiazolon
2-Methyl-2H-isothiazol-3-one
Acticide
Algucid
Algricid
Amerstat 250
Benzisothiazolinone (increasing usage, found in paint, adhesives, dish soap, laundry detergent, sprays)
Benzo Chloroisothiazolinone
Chloroisothiazolinone
ChlorosiEuxyl K 100
Euxyl K-100
Fennosan IT 21
Grotan TK2
Isothiazolinone
Kathon
Kathon CG
Mergal K7
Metat GT
Metatin GT
Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI)
Methylisothiazolinone (MI)
Mitco CC 32 L
Octylisothiazolinone (new variant reported in 2015)
Paretol
Parmetol
There are apps out there to help us decipher the label enigma. I usually rely on simplicity as the key. I get just as confused as the next person so the less I have to read, the better.
WHY is METH used
It is a preservative, active against bacteria, yeast and fungi.
WHERE is METH found
Used in hair care, skin care, sunscreen, body wash. We wear it, our skin ingests it, we may inadvertently inhale it. The website Default to Nature describes MIT : It and its variations go by a long list of names, and can be found in paints, glues, adhesives, industrial water storage tanks, paper processing, mining, deodorizing sprays, liquid laundry detergents, deodorants, lotions, body washes, liquid hand soaps, dish detergent, liquid dishwasher rinse aids, shampoos, conditioners, sunscreens, toilet paper, tissues, air conditioner freshener (used in hotels and other public places), household cleaning products, polishes, wet wipes, stain removers, pet odour cleaning agents, carpet and furniture shampoo, leather conditioner, hand sanitizer, makeup, and more, including some medications’ carrier agents.
WHEN did METH start
It was first introduced in cosmetics and other products in the 1970’s. The use of methylisothiazolinone has been restricted in Europe. But some increases, not decreases, are occurring in North America. Canada is aware of the situation and is thinking about regulations.
WHO is responsible for METH
Never an easy answer. It is a combination. The FDA and Health Canada. Big corporations. Those who wish to preserve the product they are selling. Understandably. No one wants the product to go bad too quickly. Unfortunately, the consumer suffers the consequences.
Natural Alternatives of METH
Vitamin E, grapefruit seed extract, organic lemonseed extract and certain essential oils help to preserve skin care products. These are the naturally healthier preservative choices.
Just remember Methylisothiazolinone or any of the aliases are not good. Choose alternative preservatives. Best to try to select products with a natural orientation. Natural skin care products with natural preservatives should be used daily or kept refrigerated for longer shelf life.
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