Medium concernPreservative
Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate
Formaldehyde releaserAllergen
What it is
A glycine-derived preservative often marketed as “naturally derived” that releases small amounts of formaldehyde at acidic pH.
What it does
Preservative in shampoos, lotions, and “natural” brand cosmetics.
Why it’s a concern
Although positioned as safer than traditional formaldehyde releasers, laboratory studies confirm it releases free formaldehyde in aqueous solution, particularly below pH 6. Contact dermatitis is reported in sensitised individuals. Consumers should be aware that “glycinate” chemistry is still a formaldehyde donor.
Also known as
suttocide A
CAS numbers
70161-44-3
Commonly found in
shampoolotionnatural-branded cosmetics
Safer alternatives
- sodium benzoate
- potassium sorbate
- leucidal liquid
Related chemical families
Sources
- De Groot et al. 2010, Contact Dermatitis