4-Methylaminophenol and its salts
Safety score · 0–100
Caution
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
A phenolic hair dye intermediate with skin sensitization and methemoglobinemia concerns, not formally restricted in EU Annexes but raising significant safety concerns.
4-Methylaminophenol (para-methylaminophenol) and its salts are aromatic amine derivatives used as oxidative hair dye intermediates. Like other p-aminophenol derivatives, they can cause severe allergic contact dermatitis in sensitized individuals and have been associated with methemoglobinemia upon systemic absorption. While not explicitly listed in EU Regulation 1223/2009 Annex II or III with restrictions, its structural relationship to restricted hair dye intermediates and its toxicity profile raise concerns about its current cosmetic authorization.
Skin benefits
- Used as hair dye intermediate for oxidative coloration
Known concerns
- Known skin sensitizer - strong allergic contact dermatitis risk
- Potential methemoglobinemia concern
- Structural alert for genotoxicity
- Not formally restricted but safety questioned
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.