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HC BROWN NO. 1.

Insufficient Data CAS 83803-98-9 / HAIR DYEING

HC BROWN NO. 1, also known as Basic Brown 17, is a synthetic basic (cationic) azo dye primarily utilized for its color-imparting properties in hair products. Its low molecular weight facilitates adherence to the hair surface and diffusion into the hair shaft, enabling semi-permanent coloration. This ingredient is not intended for direct skin benefits.

hair dyeing

Science

As a cationic azo dye, HC BROWN NO. 1 functions by electrostatically interacting with and binding to the keratin structures of the hair. While its primary action is on hair, studies on dermal interaction indicate minimal absorption into the skin, with human absorption studies reporting no uptake at 1 mM concentrations under specific conditions.


Research

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Dermal absorption assessments in excised pig skin, using a 2.0% concentration in a hair dye formulation, showed approximately 0.066% to 0.48% absorption. A human dermal absorption study reported no measurable absorption at 1 mM in a 40% aqueous isopropanol solution.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

HC BROWN NO. 1 is a synthetic dye incorporated into liquid or semi-solid formulations for hair coloring, and as such, it is not an ingredient typically prone to 'dusting' in powder applications.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5.5 – 8.5
0 7 14

Stability

This basic dye demonstrates optimal stability within a pH range of 5.5 to 8.5, which is consistent with the alkaline environments often employed in hair dye formulations to enhance dye penetration.


Safety

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
2%
Sensitization risk Moderate

The CIR Expert Panel concluded that HC BROWN NO. 1 is safe for use in hair dye products up to 2.0% within current practices. However, data are deemed insufficient to establish its safety for other types of cosmetic products. The SCCS similarly considers it safe in non-oxidative hair dye formulations at a maximum concentration of 2.0%, acknowledging a potential for sensitization. In the US, it is regulated as a coal tar hair dye, necessitating specific caution statements and patch test instructions.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Insufficient Data

HC BROWN NO. 1 is primarily designated as a hair coloring agent with minimal dermal absorption, and current data are insufficient to ascertain its safety or efficacy for inclusion in precision skincare formulations.


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