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SOLVENT YELLOW 18.

Avoid CAS 6407-78-9 / HAIR DYEING

Solvent Yellow 18 is a synthetic organic compound primarily employed for its ability to impart a greenish-yellow coloration. Classified as an amine and aromatic amine, its use is associated with severe safety concerns, including potential for sensitization, carcinogenicity, and general toxicity.

Colorant

Science

As a colorant, Solvent Yellow 18 functions by absorbing specific light wavelengths to produce a distinctive greenish-yellow hue. Metabolically, it can undergo enzyme-mediated conversion, leading to the formation of N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine metabolites. These byproducts are cytotoxic to cultured cells and have been observed to induce DNA adducts in animal models, indicating genotoxic potential.


Research

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A


Transparency

Commonly dusted

Solvent Yellow 18 is considered a red-flag ingredient due to its classification as an amine and aromatic amine, linked to significant risks including sensitization, carcinogenicity, and general toxicity. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) issued a 'Cease Manufacture' status for its related chemical compound in January 2018, highlighting its severe hazard profile.


The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

This colorant exhibits robust stability, remaining unaffected by exposure to 5% hydrochloric acid or 5% sodium carbonate. It demonstrates good heat resistance up to 180°C and maintains stability up to 90°C, with sublimation occurring above 210°C.


Safety

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk High

Solvent Yellow 18 is identified as an amine and aromatic amine capable of causing sensitization, carcinogenicity, and toxic effects. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has implemented a 'Cease Manufacture' status as of January 17, 2018, for its constituent chemical, 3H-Pyrazol-3-one, 4-[(2,4-dimethylphenyl)azo]-2,4-dihydro-5-methyl-2-phenyl-. While the FDA permits its restricted use in certain medical devices (e.g., contact lenses per 21 CFR 73.3122), color additives generally approved for use are prohibited from the eye area or injections unless specifically authorized. A dedicated safety opinion or maximum concentration for general cosmetic use by the Scientific Committee for Consumer Safety (SCCS) is not available.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Avoid

Given its classification as a potent sensitizer, carcinogen, and general toxicant, coupled with a 'Cease Manufacture' status from ECHA, Solvent Yellow 18 should be strictly avoided in all skincare formulations.


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