Imidazolidinyl Urea

Updated: February 7th, 2010 |

HEALTH CONCERNS
Is this chemical a carcinogen?	No, but see our notes below about formaldehyde releasers.
How can it affect me?	Typical allergic contact dermatitis reactions may occur, however, imidazolidinyl urea is not a common cause of contact allergy when compared with other preservatives.  For this reason, imidazolidinyl urea is often the preservative found in products that are labeled ‘hypoallergenic’.   However, if you have sensitivity to imidazolidinyl urea, these products are far from being hypoallergenic and should be avoided. The concentration of imidazolidinyl urea in cosmetics is typically 0.1-0.3 percent although it has been used as high as 5 percent. The principal source of human exposure to imidazolidinyl urea occurs from dermal contact when using personal care products containing this compound. These products, especially cosmetics, can remain on the skin for hours providing sufficient time for the absorption of imidazolidinyl urea.  Repeated use of these cosmetics could result in chronic exposure to this compound. If sensitive, read product labels and avoid products that contain imidazolidinyl urea or any of its alternative names. Be wary of products that are labeled ‘hypoallergenic’ as these often contain imidazolidinyl urea. Avoid related substances that you may also be allergic to. This includes formaldehyde and other formaldehyde-releasing preservatives found in cosmetics, topical agents, and industrial and metalworking fluids. Other names for imidazolidinyl urea are: N,N-methylenebis (N’-)1-(hydroxymethyl)-2,5-dioxo-4-imidazolidinyl urea Urea, N,N-methylenebis [N'-[3-(hydroxymethyl)-2,5-dioxo-4-imidazolidinyl] 1,1′-Methylenebis[3-[3-(hydroxymethyl)-2,5-dioxo-4-imidazolidinyl]urea] Germall 115® Imidurea NF® Biopure 100® Imidurea® Sept 115® Tristat 1U® Unicide U-13® Imidazolidinyl urea is a formaldehyde releaser; therefore, for those highly allergic to formaldehydes and their releasers, please read our article on Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde Releasers.
Are there controversial issues?	No.