Is polyhexamethylene biguanide safe?
Based on the data available, PHMB is not safe for consumers when used up to the maximum concentration of 0.3%. The safe use could be based on a lower use concentration and/or restrictions with regard to cosmetic products categories.
What is polyhexamethylene biguanide used for?
Polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) is an antiseptic with antiviral and antibacterial properties used in several ways including wound care dressings, contact lens cleaning solutions, perioperative cleansing products, and swimming pool cleaners.
What is polymeric biguanide hydrochloride?
Polyhexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride (Polyhexanide, PHMB) is a chemical biocide and a member of the polymeric guanidine family is used as a disinfectant and antiseptic and general disinfecting agents in the food industry and, very successfully, for the disinfection of swimming pools.
Where is PHMB found?
PHMB can for example be found in sanitary napkins, creams, and after-shave balms. PHMB is banned for use in cosmetic products in the EU since January 2015 but the substance can still sometimes be found in products, even from major brands, according to the Danish Consumer Council THINK Chemicals.
Is PHMB cytotoxic?
Cytotoxicity and Tissue Toxicity in vitro and ex vivo In vitro results from cell culture tests and explant tests show that PHMB has remarkable low cytotoxicity. [79] , who found PHMB to be superior to different PVP-iodine solutions in terms of antimicrobial efficacy and tolerability.
Is PHMB banned in the UK?
The decision to ban PHMB in human hygiene products is now in effect and will be enforced by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) within the UK. PHMB-containing hygiene products are no longer available for sale in the UK & the EU from the 17th of February 2017 onwards.
Is PHMB safe for eyes?
Conclusions : Only mild to moderate ocular AEs occurred after intensive dosing with high concentrations of PHMB. Therefore, it is considered safe to investigate 0.08% PHMB eye drops in a Phase III study in patients with Acanthamoeba keratitis.
Is PHMB a quat?
Polyhexamethylenebiguanide (PHMB) is a quaternary ammonium compound and polymeric cationic anti-microbial agent that has been used in ophthalmic solutions, peri-operative cleaning solutions, etc.
Is PHMB banned in Europe?
PHMB is banned for use in cosmetic products in the EU since January 2015 but the substance can still sometimes be found in products, even from major brands, according to the Danish Consumer Council THINK Chemicals.
What is polyhexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride?
Polyhexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride (PHMB) is a chemical biocide commonly used as a disinfectant and antiseptic in the food industry and very successfully for the disinfection of swimming pools.