What it is
1-Methylhydantoin-2-imide is the INCI designation for creatinine, a small nitrogen-containing organic molecule. In cosmetic formulas it functions as a skin-conditioning agent, included at low levels as part of a supporting blend. It is a naturally occurring metabolite that is also produced synthetically for use in formulations.
Safety & warnings
Used at low concentrations as a conditioning agent and generally well tolerated. It is a small, well-characterized molecule and is not associated with notable comedogenicity.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic or biologically derived; creatinine is a naturally occurring compound in the body and is manufactured for cosmetic use.
Questions everyone asks
What is 1-methylhydantoin-2-imide?
It is the INCI name for creatinine, a small organic molecule used as a skin-conditioning agent in cosmetics.
What role does it play in sunscreen?
It is a conditioning additive included at low levels within the supporting blend, not a UV filter.