4-Amino-m-Cresol
What is it?
6-Amino-m-Cresol, 6-Amino-o-Cresol, 4-Amino-m-Cresol, 5-Amino-4-Chloro-o-Cresol, 5-Amino-6-Chloro-o-Cresol and 4-Chloro-2-Aminophenol are crystals that range in color from beige and reddish-brown to brown. These ingredients are used in the formulation of semi-permanent and permanent hair dyes, colors, and tints.
Safety Information
The safety of these six ingredients has been assessed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel. The CIR Expert Panel evaluated the scientific data and concluded that 6-Amino-m-Cresol, 4-Amino-m-Cresol, 5-Amino-4-Chloro-o-Cresol, and 5-Amino-6-Chloro-o-Cresol were safe as used in oxidative and nonoxidative (semipermanent) hair dyes. The available data also supported the safety of 6-Amino-o-Cresol and 4-Chloro-2-Aminophenol for use in oxidative hair dyes, but were insufficient to determine the safety of 6-Amino-o-Cresol and 4-Chloro-2-Aminophenol in nonoxidative (semipermanent) hair dyes.
Why is it used in cosmetics and personal care products?
6-Amino-m-Cresol, 6-Amino-o-Cresol, 4-Amino-m-Cresol, 5-Amino-4-Chloro-o-Cresol, 5-Amino-6-Chloro-o-Cresol and 4-Chloro-2-Aminophenol impart color to hair. The exact color obtained will depend on the other ingredients that are used in the preparation and the starting color of the hair.
Scientific facts:
6-Amino-m-Cresol, 6-Amino-o-Cresol, 4-Amino-m-Cresol, 5-Amino-4-Chloro-o-Cresol, 5-Amino-6-Chloro-o-Cresol and 4-Chloro-2-Aminophenol are primarily used in permanent hair coloring systems where color is produced inside the hair fiber. This is accomplished through careful formulation of the product so that the ingredients interact in a highly controlled process.
