1-Methylhydantoin-2-Imide

INCI: 1-METHYLHYDANTOIN-2-IMIDE

A skin-conditioning agent that helps maintain skin hydration and texture

Best For Skin Types

All, Dry, Mature

Addresses

Dryness, Hydration

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is 1-Methylhydantoin-2-Imide?

1-Methylhydantoin-2-Imide is a synthetic ingredient classified as a skin conditioner in cosmetic formulations. It is designed to help support the skin's moisture retention and overall condition, working at the surface level to improve how skin feels and appears.

This ingredient functions as part of a broader skincare strategy aimed at maintaining skin hydration and smoothness. It is used in relatively small concentrations and appears in a small proportion of skincare products, suggesting it is one of many conditioning options available to formulators.

How It Works

1-Methylhydantoin-2-Imide functions as a skin conditioner by supporting the skin's natural ability to retain water and maintain its structural integrity. It works at the epidermis level to help optimise skin hydration and texture.

The ingredient's conditioning effects are thought to stem from its ability to support the skin's moisture-retention mechanisms, though the precise molecular mechanisms are not extensively documented in publicly available research.

Clinical Evidence & References

Published clinical data specific to 1-Methylhydantoin-2-Imide is limited. The ingredient's use in cosmetic formulations is grounded in its established function as a skin conditioner, but robust independent clinical studies demonstrating its efficacy are not readily available in the scientific literature.

To understand its benefits, it is helpful to consider broader research on skin hydration and conditioning. Evidence shows that supporting skin moisture retention and barrier function is important for maintaining skin health, particularly in aged or compromised skin. However, specific evidence for this ingredient's contribution to these outcomes would require dedicated clinical evaluation.

How to Use

This ingredient is typically used as part of a complete skincare routine rather than as a standalone treatment. It is generally incorporated into moisturisers, serums, or other hydrating formulations. For best results, apply products containing this ingredient to clean, damp skin to help seal in moisture. Consistency is more important than frequency when using conditioning ingredients.

Safety & Precautions

1-Methylhydantoin-2-Imide is generally considered safe for topical skincare use. It is suitable for most skin types, though those with very sensitive skin should patch-test first as with any new ingredient.

How widely it's used

0.1%
of skincare products contain this ingredient — placing it in the top 50% of most-used ingredients.
Most common in: Moisturisers Treatments

Regulatory information

Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.

Show identifiers
INCI Name
1-METHYLHYDANTOIN-2-IMIDE
EC Number
200-466-7
Function
Skin Conditioning

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