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Kathon CG

Worst

Preservative

No known benefits

Kathon CG at a glance

  • Also called Kathon™ Cosmetic Grade
  • Combination of two sensitizing synthetic preservatives
  • Can cause contact dermatitis

Kathon CG description

Kathon CG is the trade name for a combination of methylchloroisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone, which offers preservative benefit. Introduced into cosmetics in the mid-1970s, it elicited a great number of sensitizations in consumers. This led to it not being included in cosmetics other than rinse-off products. This blend is used in many products instead of parabens, despite the fact that parabens have a better safety track record and lower incidence of causing a sensitising reaction.

Related ingredients: Methylisothiazolinone Methylchloroisothiazolinone

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Kathon CG references

  • Anais Brasileiros de Dematologia, May-June 2023, pages 339-346
  • Life, May 2022, pages 1-12
  • Revista Brasileira de Saúde Ocupaciona, April 2022, pages 1-10
  • World Allergy Organization Journal, July 2020, ePublication
  • Anais Brasileiros de Dematologia, March-April 2020, pages 194–199

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.