Science
Mechanism of Action
Operates through electrostatic attraction, where its positively charged molecules bind to negatively charged anionic sites on keratinized surfaces like the hair shaft or specific biological tissues, resulting in semi-permanent color deposition.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Observed moderate to severe sensory irritation and localized inflammation upon prolonged contact.
- 02 Identified as the median lethal concentration (LC50) in aquatic ecotoxicity assessments for fathead minnows.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Because this is a pigment rather than an active ingredient, its presence in skincare is rare; however, its potential for irritation at concentrations near 2% makes even moderate usage a concern.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Maintains stability across a broad pH spectrum but is highly susceptible to oxidative degradation and should be stored between pH 5.0 and 7.0 for maximum integrity.
Conflicts
- Anionic surfactants
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Strong reducing agents
- High alkaline environments (pH > 12)
Safety
Safety Profile
Explicitly prohibited in the EU (Annex II) for cosmetic hair dyes due to the risk of metabolic cleavage into carcinogenic aromatic amines, such as 2,4-diaminotoluene.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Due to significant safety concerns regarding carcinogenicity and its prohibition in several global regions, this ingredient is unsuitable for precision skincare.
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References
Sources