If you have sensitive skin, checking the ingredients list on your beauty products is second nature. One preservative you won't find in our UK-made products is Methylisothiazolinone, also known as MI, which has been linked to skin allergies.
As we have been making certified organic beauty products since 1997, all our formulas have always been MI-free. In this guide, we explain what MI is, how UK regulations have changed and how to choose gentle, effective products for your sensitive skin.
At a glance
- Methylisothiazolinone (MI) is a preservative that is now banned in leave-on cosmetic products in the UK and EU due to its potential to cause contact allergies
- Rinse-off products like shower gel can still contain MI, but all Green People products are MI-free
- Our organic certification standards do not permit the use of MI
- For very sensitive skin, our Scent Free range offers gentle, nourishing MI-free essentials
What is Methylisothiazolinone (MI)?
Methylisothiazolinone - often shortened to MI - is a synthetic preservative. It was once widely used in cosmetics and household goods to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeasts and moulds, extending the shelf life of products.
However, over the last decade, dermatologists identified MI as a significant cause of allergic contact dermatitis. Following a rise in reported skin reactions, its use in cosmetics has been heavily restricted.
Are all beauty products MI-free?
Not necessarily, which is why it pays to check the ingredients list on the label. In 2017, the EU and UK banned the use of MI in 'leave-on' cosmetic products. This category includes moisturisers, body lotions, sun creams and any product designed to remain on the skin.
A very low level of MI is still permitted for use in 'rinse-off' products, such as shower gels, shampoos and hand washes. While this level is considered safe for most, those with a known MI allergy may still experience a reaction. If you order products from outside Europe, you will need to check the label as regulations can differ.
Because Green People products are certified organic, we have never used MI. Our certification bodies, including COSMOS, the Soil Association and Organic Food Federation, do not permit its use at all. This means our entire range of skin care, sun care, hair care and body care is, and always has been, 100% MI-free.
Which preservatives do we use instead of MI?
We use a blend of gentle, effective preservatives that are approved for use in organic cosmetics and are well-suited for sensitive and eczema-prone skin. Our preferred preservatives are derived from nature and include ingredients like Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate and Levulinic Acid.
We also use smart packaging to reduce the need for preservatives altogether. Many of our face creams use airless pumps, which prevent air from entering the container. This keeps the formula inside stable and hygienic without requiring a high level of preservatives.
Discover our best MI-free products for sensitive skin
If your skin is prone to allergies and irritation, our Scent Free collection is the perfect place to start. These expertly formulated products are not only MI-free but also entirely free from fragrance and essential oils, offering pure, gentle care for your face, hair and body.
Our MI-free shampoo, conditioner and shower gel from our the Scent Free range ensures you can wash from top to toe without worrying about MI or other common irritants.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if a product contains MI?
You will need to check the full ingredients list, which is often labelled as an INCI list. Look for the name 'Methylisothiazolinone'. If you see this listed on a leave-on product made in the UK or EU, it is likely old stock and should be avoided.
Are Methylisothiazolinone and Methylchloroisothiazolinone the same?
No, they are different but related ingredients. Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI) is another preservative often used in a blend with MI, known as MCI/MI. This combination is also restricted and can only be used in rinse-off products at a very low concentration. We do not use MCI in any Green People products.
What does it mean if a product is hypoallergenic?
The term 'hypoallergenic' suggests that a product is less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Our Scent Free range is hypoallergenic and we formulate it without common allergens. Our Scent Free 24-Hour Cream is a great choice for a gentle, MI-free face cream.
Are all your sensitive skin products fragrance-free?
Our entire Scent Free collection is fragrance-free and designed for very sensitive or allergic skin. However, we have many other products suitable for sensitive skin that contain gentle essential oils for a subtle, natural aroma. You can explore our full range of natural products for sensitive skin to find the best fit for you.
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We hope this guide to methylisothiazolinone-free products has been helpful. If you need any more help or advice, our friendly UK customer care team are happy to help on 01403 740350 or on social @GreenPeopleUK.
MEET CHARLOTTE, FOUNDER OF GREEN PEOPLE
Charlotte Vøhtz, founder of Green People, has 25+ years of experience in the natural and organic beauty industry.
A recognised leader in the field of organic beauty, Charlotte helped inform the UK's first organic beauty standards and was voted the People's Choice in the 2023 list of Who's Who in Natural Beauty.
A published author, she wrote the organic beauty bible 'Naturally Gorgeous'. Previously, she qualified as a nurse and spent over 10 years working in pharmaceuticals.
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