top of page
Groomers' Health


IGS Position Statement on Dimethicone in Animal Grooming Products
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.
Nathalie Ariey-Jouglard
2 days ago9 min read


Comprehensive Report on Dimethicone in Animal Grooming 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.
Nathalie Ariey-Jouglard
2 days ago15 min read


IGS Position Statement on Methylisothiazolinone and Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MIT/MCIT)
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.
Nathalie Ariey-Jouglard
May 55 min read


Comprehensive Report on Methylisothiazolinone and Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MIT/MCIT): Health, Occupational, Manufacturing and Environmental Effects
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
Nathalie Ariey-Jouglard
May 516 min read


New IGS Course: Noise Exposure & Hearing Health for Groomers
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
Nathalie Ariey-Jouglard
May 24 min read


The International Grooming Society Launches Its First Global Groomer Health Study
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
Nathalie Ariey-Jouglard
Sep 29, 20252 min read


Groomer Burnout: Causes, Early Signs, and How to Protect Your Health
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
Nathalie Ariey-Jouglard
Sep 27, 20253 min read
bottom of page
