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Moumoujus

BASIC YELLOW 28.

Avoid CAS 54060-92-3 / HAIR DYEING

Basic Yellow 28 is a synthetic cationic methine dye primarily utilized as a direct colorant in industrial and textile applications. Due to significant safety concerns regarding its genotoxicity and regulatory prohibitions, it is not considered a viable or safe ingredient for modern skincare formulations.

Summary

colorant

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a positively charged indolium dye, Basic Yellow 28 functions via electrostatic attraction, binding directly to the negatively charged keratin proteins found in the skin and hair. Unlike oxidative dyes, it does not require a developer to impart color, instead adhering to the substrate surface to provide immediate pigmentation.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range 0–0%
Optimal

0%

Key findings

  1. 01 A 0.1% dermal penetration study observed low systemic absorption (under 0.3% in urine), though long-term safety data remains inconclusive.
  2. 02 In vitro research on human keratinocytes has linked the ingredient to DNA fragmentation and potential genotoxic effects through programmed cell death (apoptosis).

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.01%
Red flag below
0.001%

This ingredient is strictly prohibited in many regions; its presence at any detectable level is a significant regulatory and safety red flag.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3.5 – 6
0 7 14

Stability

Maintains hydrolytic stability in slightly acidic environments; however, it is highly sensitive to alkaline conditions, which can lead to rapid color degradation or a shift to a colorless leuco form.

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong bases
  • Anionic surfactants
  • Reducing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0%
Pregnancy
Caution
Sensitization risk High

Explicitly prohibited by the European Union (Annex II) and not authorized for use by the FDA. Its use in cosmetics is legally classified as an adulteration.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Basic Yellow 28 is a prohibited substance with documented genotoxic potential and high irritancy, offering no benefit to skin health.

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