MI Free is dedicated to allergy to the preservative methylisothiazolinone (MI) and its relatives, such as methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI), which are found widely in cosmetics, toiletries, household cleaning products and other products such as paints.
Increasing numbers of consumers are developing serious and debilitating allergies to these ‘isothiazolinone’ preservatives, and the epidemic shows little sign of slowing down.
Those with allergy to MI often struggle to find what they need — such as lists of safe products, how to obtain a medical diagnosis or help with their problem, and information on the labelling of isothiazolinone preservatives on consumer products. This resource aims to answer those questions.
To navigate the site, use the drop-down menu at the top. For some of the most recent articles, see below.
Before using this site, please read the About MI Free page.
The Metal Allergy Guide
Many people with allergies to the isothiazolinone preservatives also react to metals, commonly nickel, but sometimes also chromium, cobalt and others such as titanium. Here’s a new detailed guide-book to support them.
Vivir con alergia a la metilisotiazolinona
I’m delighted to announce the release of the Spanish version of my book, Living with Methylisothiazolinone Allergy, translated by experienced multi-lingual translator, Marta Fernandez. Find out more about it through the link above.
Isothiazolinone Test Kits, Dish Soaps and Cosmetics
There is an expensive test kit for isothiazolinones, although it doesn’t seem much practical use to consumers. However, research into it has led to a more concerning finding — of ‘hidden’ isothiazolinones in dish soaps …
New Dog Care Products From Green People
Green People, known for their excellent organic and natural cosmetics for humans, have branched out into products for humans’ best friends. Is this the start of a new trend — and should we welcome and encourage other brands to follow suit?
Isothiazolinone-free Glues and Adhesives
It isn’t always easy to source detailed information on the ingredients of glues and adhesives, but a number of them do use isothiazolinones, especially liquid glues. Here is a look at the issue, with a list of safe products.
Lubricants
As personal lubricants are not classed as cosmetics in Europe, they’re not subject to ‘leave on’ cosmetic legislation, which would exclude isothiazolinone preservatives. Here is a list of safe lubes for both UK, US and Australian readers.
Isothiazolinone-Free Dandruff Shampoos
Safe shampoo recommendations remain one of the most popular requests we receive at the MI Free website, so here’s another dedicated article: a round-up of products suited to those with dandruff issues too.
Living with Methylisothiazolinone Allergy
It’s taken a couple of years, but finally I’ve released a new book about allergy to MI and other isothiazolinones, and it is now available both as an eBook and a paperback through Amazon, and as an eBook through platforms such as Scribd and Apple.
Allergy Face Masks
Can face masks help protect you from you inadvertent exposure to isothiazolinones — or indeed other allergens such as pollens, fragrances and VOCs? We take a look at the products on the market.
Low Allergy Cosmetics
Truly hypoallergenic or ‘allergy free’ cosmetics may not strictly be possible, but there are many products on the market which are highly non-reactive and contain very few ingredients. Here’s a look at the best ones for ultra-sensitive skin.
PPD and the Allergy Gentle Molecule
Clairol Nice ‘n Easy hair colouring products have been reformulated with the addition of a new supposedly ‘allergy gentle’ dye molecule — but is the product really safe for those with isothiazolinone allergies — or not?
Fragrance Free Shampoos
Fragrances can cause severe allergies — albeit not usually as severe as allergies to methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone — and are very common. Need an MI / MCI-free and fragrance free shampoo? Look here …
Hair Detanglers
We’ve looked at shampoos, and conditioners and hair-dyes — and now the latest in our articles focusing on safe hair care products takes a look at hair detanglers — with options for both adults and kids alike.
MI-Free Sunscreen
It’s that time of year again! Summer is coming and while all sun creams in the UK and EU may be safely MI-free, those in America, Australia and New Zealand may not be. Here’s a safe selection for you to browse.
Hair Loss Products
Looking for hair loss fighters or hair thickeners? Hair products are notorious for containing MI and MCI, but there are plenty of treatments for hair and scalp, both cosmetic and medical, which are safe to use.
PPD Allergy and MI Allergy
If you’re looking to dye your hair and you have an allergy to MI – and to other ingredients, such as PPD, TDS, fragrances and artificial colours – you need to tread very carefully with the dye or colour you choose. Here are some recommendations.