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3,4-METHYLENEDIOXYANILINE.

Avoid CAS 14268-66-7 / HAIR DYEING

3,4-Methylenedioxyaniline is a chemical compound primarily used as a precursor or coupler in oxidative hair coloring systems rather than a traditional skincare active. This water-soluble ingredient functions by forming colored pigment molecules when combined with oxidizing agents like hydrogen peroxide in hair dye formulations.

Hair coloring Oxidative coupler

Science

Functions as an oxidative hair coloring coupler that penetrates hair shafts and reacts with oxidizing agents to create large pigment molecules that become trapped within the hair structure for permanent color development.


Research

High confidence
Effective range ≤1.5%
Optimal

1.5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Percutaneous absorption study at 1.5% showed 95.9% of substance remained in washing solutions with minimal systemic absorption (SCCS/1269/09)
  2. 02 Skin sensitization studies at 3.0% identified this compound as a potent sensitizer in guinea pig and rat models (CIR 2016/2022)

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

Not applicable as this ingredient is specifically used in hair coloring products, not general skincare formulations


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 1.5 – 6
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits high water solubility at acidic pH (408 g/L at pH 1.5) but dramatically reduced solubility as pH increases (under 20 g/L at pH 6.0). Maintains stability in aqueous solutions at ambient temperature for approximately one week.

Synergies

  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Other oxidative hair dye components

Conflicts

  • N-nitrosating agents
  • Nitrosating substances
  • Strong oxidizers outside intended reactions

Safety

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
1.5%
Sensitization risk High

Approved exclusively for hair dye applications up to 1.5% concentration after mixing with developer. Prohibited in formulations where N-nitroso compounds may form. Identified as a potent skin sensitizer requiring careful handling.


Your Skin

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy High
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Avoid

Specialized hair coloring ingredient with high sensitization potential, unsuitable for general skincare applications.


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