EverFresh anti-dandruff shampoo recalled after exceeding allergen limit by more than three times: Case

SINGAPORE — A brand of anti-dandruff shampoo has been recalled after it was found to contain more than three times the permissible limit of allergens, said the Consumers Association of Singapore (Case).

In a media release on Wednesday (April 29), Case said it commissioned tests on a random selection of 25 shampoos for allergy-causing substances as part of its efforts to boost consumer safety.

The tests found that one of the shampoos, EverFresh Anti-dandruff Shampoo 500ml, exceeded the regulatory limit for the total concentration of two substances — methylisothiazolinone (MIT) and methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT) — by more than three times.

MIT and CMIT are widely used as preservatives to inhibit bacterial growth in liquid cosmetic and personal care products. However, prolonged exposure to the substances can cause skin irritation and allergic skin reactions.

Case advised consumers who have bought the shampoo to stop using it and dispose of it immediately.

It also informed the Health Sciences Authority of the findings, and the companies which imported the affected shampoo were directed to stop sales and recall it on March 6.

Regulations allow for a maximum MIT and CMIT concentration of 15 parts per million, weight for weight, in shampoos.

EverFresh Anti-dandruff Shampoo was found to have 53.01 parts per million, weight for weight, while the other 24 shampoos were within the permissible limit.

The 25 samples used in the test were bought from pharmacies, convenience and value stores in the heartlands as well as popular e-commerce websites, said Case.

The samples were also tested for 1,4-dioxane, which is a prohibited ingredient generated as a by-product in the manufacturing of shampoo. Short-term exposure to 1,4-dioxane may cause eye and nose irritation while prolonged exposure can lead to an increased risk of cancer. No traces of 1,4-dioxane were found in any of the samples, it added.

According to Case, there have been several studies on the presence of allergens in shampoos. 

In particular, a 2017 study conducted by the Hong Kong Consumer Council found MIT and CMIT in 20 per cent of the samples tested, while more than 60 per cent contained 1,4-dioxane.

Case advised consumers to check product labels for special instructions, warnings and ingredients before buying. Those who are allergic or have sensitive skin should avoid products with MIT and CMIT in the ingredients list.

Consumers should also refrain from buying products without a product label and only buy from reliable and reputable sources. In addition, they should look out for allergic reactions when using new products, and stop using them immediately if they occur.