Ingredient guide
Imidazolidinyl Urea in Lip Gloss
What Imidazolidinyl Urea does in lip gloss and how it's regulated.
About Imidazolidinyl Urea
Imidazolidinyl Urea is an ingredient used in cosmetics such as lip gloss.
Why brands use it in lip gloss
Other manufacturers use it as an antimicrobial preservative, often combined with parabens or other preservatives.
Regulatory status
- US FDA: Permitted in US cosmetics with no concentration limits. Not banned despite formaldehyde release.
- European Union: Not permitted in cosmetics
- Canada: Restricted in cosmetics
Common alternatives
Other ingredients formulators use for a similar job in lip gloss:
potassium sorbate
sodium benzoate
ethylhexylglycerin
tocopherol (vitamin E)
rosemary extract
Imidazolidinyl Urea in other product types
FAQ
What is Imidazolidinyl Urea?
Imidazolidinyl Urea is an ingredient used in cosmetics such as lip gloss.
Why is Imidazolidinyl Urea used in lip gloss?
Other manufacturers use it as an antimicrobial preservative, often combined with parabens or other preservatives.
How is Imidazolidinyl Urea regulated?
Permitted in US cosmetics with no concentration limits. Not banned despite formaldehyde release. It is not permitted in cosmetics sold in the EU. Canada restricts its use in cosmetics.
Does Numbrrrz lip balm contain Imidazolidinyl Urea?
No. Numbrrrz is organic coconut oil, organic beeswax, organic jojoba oil and vitamin E, plus organic essential oils or flavoring in the scented versions. That is a formulation choice, not a judgment about other products.
