General Description
Synonyms: Biopure 100; Germall 115; imidazolidinyl urea; methanebis[N,N0 (5-ureido-2,4-diketotetrahydroimidazole)-N,N-dimethylol]; 1,10 – methylenebis{3-[3-(hydroxymethyl)-2,5-dioxo-4-imidazolidinyl]urea}; Tri-Stat IU.
Description: Imidurea is a white, free-flowing odorless powder.
Chemical Name: N,N00-Methylenebis{N0 -[3-(hydroxymethyl)-2,5-dioxo-4-imidazolidinyl]urea}
Uses
Imidurea is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative used in cosmetics and topical pharmaceutical formulations; typical concentrations used are 0.03–0.5% w/w.
It is effective between pH 3–9 and is reported to have synergistic effects when used with parabens
Incompatibilities
Imidurea is incompatible with strong oxidants. It is compatible with other preservatives including sorbic acid and quaternary ammonium compounds. It is also compatible with other pharmaceutical and cosmetic excipients including proteins, nonionic surfactants, and lecithin
Safety
Imidurea is widely used in cosmetics and topical pharmaceutical formulations, and is generally regarded as a nontoxic and nonirritant material. However, there have been some reports of contact dermatitis associated with imidurea, although these are relatively few considering its widespread use in cosmetics
Handling Precautions
Observe normal precautions appropriate to the circumstances and quantity of material handled. Imidurea may be irritant to the eyes. Eye protection and gloves are recommended.
Related Substances
Diazolidinyl urea.