Mercaptobenzothiazole — Allergy Risk & Safety Profile
INCI: MERCAPTOBENZOTHIAZOLE
Key Facts
- CAS Number
- 149-30-4
- Category
- rubber chemical
- Risk Level
- high
- Common Allergen
- Yes
- Found In
- rubber products, cosmetic sponges
Is Mercaptobenzothiazole safe in cosmetics?
Mercaptobenzothiazole is rated high risk in cosmetic products. It is a known allergen that can cause contact dermatitis in sensitized individuals. Commonly found in rubber products, cosmetic sponges.
What is Mercaptobenzothiazole?
Rubber accelerator allergen.
Allergy & Safety Information
Mercaptobenzothiazole is classified as a high-risk ingredient. It is a known cause of allergic contact dermatitis. Individuals with sensitive skin or a history of contact allergies should avoid products containing this ingredient. A patch test is recommended before first use of any product containing Mercaptobenzothiazole.
This ingredient is classified as high risk from an allergenicity perspective. It is a recognised cause of allergic contact dermatitis with a relatively high sensitisation rate in patch-tested populations. People with a history of skin reactions to cosmetics, or with conditions such as eczema or sensitive skin, should exercise particular caution.
About Rubber Chemical Ingredients
Rubber chemicals are used as accelerants and antioxidants in the vulcanisation of natural and synthetic rubber. They are not typically added to cosmetic formulas directly, but appear in rubber-containing applicators, gloves, and packaging components. Sensitisation occurs through skin contact with rubber products.
Relevance for Mercaptobenzothiazole: Thiurams and carbamates are the most common rubber accelerant allergens. A positive patch test to rubber chemicals indicates allergy to the processing additives, not to the rubber itself. Latex-free, nitrile-free, or vinyl alternatives are available for most applications.
How to Identify Mercaptobenzothiazole in Products
Cosmetic ingredients are listed by their INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name in descending order of concentration. To check whether a product contains Mercaptobenzothiazole, scan the ingredient list for its INCI name exactly as it appears above. Ingredients present at 1% or less may appear in any order after the 1% threshold.
Product types to prioritise checking: Rubber products, Cosmetic sponges. These product categories are the most common sources of Mercaptobenzothiazole exposure based on formulation data.
Not sure if your products contain Mercaptobenzothiazole? Paste the ingredient list into the free ingredient checker to scan for Mercaptobenzothiazole and other allergens automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mercaptobenzothiazole safe for sensitive skin?
Mercaptobenzothiazole is a known allergen and is generally not recommended for sensitive skin. Consider patch testing before use.
What products contain Mercaptobenzothiazole?
Mercaptobenzothiazole is commonly found in rubber products, cosmetic sponges.
What does Mercaptobenzothiazole do in cosmetics?
Mercaptobenzothiazole functions as a rubber_chemical in formulations.
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Step-by-step elimination method to identify your trigger.
Contact Dermatitis Guide
Symptoms, causes, patch testing, and treatment options.
Is Mercaptobenzothiazole causing YOUR skin reactions?
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