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6-AMINO-2,4-DICHLORO-M-CRESOL HCL.

Questionable CAS 39549-31-0 / HAIR DYEING

6-Amino-2,4-dichloro-m-cresol HCL is a synthetic compound primarily used as a hair dyeing agent in oxidative and semi-permanent color formulations. While not a traditional skincare active, it may appear in facial hair tinting products where it functions as a precursor molecule that creates pigmented compounds. This ingredient works through oxidative coupling reactions to generate stable color molecules within hair structures.

hair dyeing color coupling agent

Science

Functions as a coupling agent that undergoes oxidation in alkaline conditions to form large, stable pigment molecules that become trapped within hair fibers, typically contributing to warm reddish or brown color tones.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.69–2.4%
Optimal

1.5%

Key findings

  1. 01 SCCS safety evaluation establishing 1.5% maximum safe concentration for oxidative hair dye applications
  2. 02 CIR expert panel analysis showing historical usage concentrations declining from 2.4% (1998) to 0.69% (2022)

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

This is a specialized hair dyeing compound with established safety limits rather than a skincare active subject to cosmetic dusting practices.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 9 – 10.5
0 7 14

Stability

Demonstrates excellent long-term stability when stored dry and protected from light at room temperature, maintaining efficacy for 8+ years under proper conditions

Synergies

  • hydrogen peroxide (in controlled oxidative systems)

Conflicts

  • strong oxidizing agents outside controlled reactions
  • strong acids

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
1.5%
Sensitization risk Low

CIR Expert Panel concluded safety for hair dye applications, though the base compound 6-amino-m-cresol has been banned in EU markets despite previous SCCS safety opinions


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Questionable

A specialized hair dyeing compound with limited relevance to precision skincare applications, better suited for cosmetic color products than functional skin treatments.


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