Imidazolidinyl urea

Imidazolidinyl urea (CAS 39236-46-9), also known as Imidurea, is a synthetic antimicrobial preservative used across personal care and pharmaceutical manufacturing. It functions by releasing formaldehyde at controlled levels to inhibit bacterial and fungal growth. This chemical is essential for aqueous formulations, effectively extending product shelf life by preventing spoilage. In cosmetic formulations, including lotions, shampoos, and conditioners, it protects against microbial contamination throughout the use cycle.

It is frequently paired with parabens or other preservatives to achieve broad-spectrum coverage at lower individual concentrations. This synergy ensures that liquid soaps and hair care products remain safe for consumer use over long periods. Pharmaceutical topical preparations such as creams and gels rely on this preservative to maintain sterility standards during storage. It is particularly effective in environments where water activity creates a high risk for microbial proliferation.

Personal care manufacturers also utilize this ingredient in wet wipes and rinse-off products. Its stability in various formulations makes it a versatile choice for industrial formulators seeking reliable antimicrobial protection in diverse applications. The material is supplied as a white powder in various grades. Standard options include cosmetic-grade and pharmaceutical-grade material, with the latter conforming to USP and BP specifications for quality and purity.

Bulk quantities are available for large-scale industrial formulators. Smaller packaging options are also provided to suit specific compounding needs or for quality assurance evaluation purposes in laboratory settings.