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Quick answer: Both score equally on our risk model. DMDM hydantoin is banned in the EU and allowed in the US; DMHF is banned in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | DMDM hydantoin | DMHF |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Banned | Banned |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | high | high |
| Banned in | European Union | European Union |
| Restricted in | — | — |
| Category | formaldehyde releaser | formaldehyde releaser |
| Where it hides | shampoo, conditioner, liquid soap | skincare, haircare |
DMDM hydantoin is a preservative that slowly releases formaldehyde to kill bacteria in water-based personal-care products.
DMHF is a preservative that slowly releases formaldehyde to kill bacteria in water-based personal-care products.
DMDM hydantoin: Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen and a common skin sensitizer. The EU restricts formaldehyde-releasing preservatives and requires warning labels; Washington State is phasing them out, while they remain unrestricted federally in the US.
DMHF: Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen and a common skin sensitizer. The EU restricts formaldehyde-releasing preservatives and requires warning labels; Washington State is phasing them out, while they remain unrestricted federally in the US.
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