Groomers' Health

Public Summary The International Grooming Society classifies Phenoxyethanol as: Category D — Not DAATA-Compatible High Concern for routine professional grooming use Phenoxyethanol is a widely used preservative in cosmetic, hygiene and grooming products. In human cosmetics, it is legally authorised in the European Union up to 1%. However, the IGS Ingredient Classification Framework does not evaluate ingredients only according to their legal status in human cosmetics. IGS evalu

Phenoxyethanol is a widely used preservative in cosmetic, hygiene, pharmaceutical and consumer products. It is valued by formulators because of its broad antimicrobial activity, its stability and its compatibility with many types of formulations. In human cosmetic regulation, phenoxyethanol is currently authorised in the European Union as a preservative at a maximum concentration of 1%. However, the IGS Ingredient Classification Framework does not evaluate ingredients only

Dimethicone is a widely used silicone-based ingredient found in cosmetic, dermatological and grooming formulations. It is commonly used for its smoothing, conditioning, anti-frizz, shine-enhancing, protective and film-forming properties. The International Grooming Society recognizes that dimethicone is not considered a high-risk systemic toxicant based on current available evidence when used appropriately on intact skin in well-formulated topical products.

Dimethicone is a silicone-based polymer widely used in cosmetic, dermatological and grooming formulations for its smoothing, lubricating, film-forming, anti-frizz, anti-foaming and skin-protective properties. In ingredient lists, it may appear under the name Dimethicone, Polydimethylsiloxane, PDMS, or as part of broader silicone families.

The International Grooming Society (IGS) promotes an evidence-based, welfare-oriented and globally responsible approach to animal grooming. Through the Global Groomer Health Initiative (GGHI), IGS works to improve professional awareness around the real conditions of grooming work, including repeated exposure to water, surfactants, preservatives, disinfectants, cleaning products, aerosols and other substances used in daily practice.

International Grooming Society — IGS Global Groomer Health Initiative — GGHI IGS Ingredient Classification Framework Executive Summary Methylisothiazolinone (MIT/MI) and methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCIT/MCI/CMIT) are synthetic isothiazolinone preservatives widely used for antimicrobial protection in water-based products. In commercial and scientific literature, the combination is most commonly referred to as MCI/MI, CMIT/MIT, or historically Kathon CG. Within the grooming in

Protecting hearing is part of protecting the future of grooming Grooming salons are full of sound. Dryers, clippers, barking dogs, water systems, conversations, movement, and long working days all create an environment where noise becomes part of the daily routine. Because this noise is so familiar, many grooming professionals stop noticing it. Yet the body may still be reacting. Ringing in the ears after a noisy day, muffled hearing, difficulty understanding speech in backgr

The International Grooming Society (IGS) is a newly founded organization created to unite groomers worldwide, raise professional standards, and support the well-being of both groomers and the animals they care for . From the very beginning, the IGS has been built on three pillars: Professional development and certification – empowering groomers to reach higher standards. Holistic grooming practices – promoting a mindful, science-based, and compassionate approach that consi

Why Groomers Are at Risk of Burnout Grooming is often seen as a rewarding and fulfilling profession. However, behind this perception lies a physically and emotionally demanding career. Repeated technical movements, managing stressed animals, dealing with demanding owners, and enduring long working hours can lead to professional exhaustion. Known as burnout , this phenomenon can severely impact the mental, physical, and emotional health of groomers. At the International Groomi