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OVEREXPOSURE RISKS FOR PROFESSIONALS
Given their frequent and prolonged exposure
to hair dyes, professional hair colorists
may be at risk. Long-term exposure to PPD
can lead to chronic health problems. Hair
pros constantly handling hair dyes without
proper protective measures are at a higher
risk of developing occupational dermatitis,
respiratory issues, and even systemic
toxicities. To avoid these risks, professionals
should prioritize safety protocols like using
gloves and ensuring proper ventilation.
ALTERNATIVES TO PPD IN HAIR COLORING
ere are many alternatives to PPD that
provide safer options for hair coloring.
Following are some PPD-alternative
ingredients you may encounter in dye formulas:
• Henna—Pure henna, which gives a reddish
tint, is a natural alternative that's free from
toxic chemicals. However, be cautious of
black henna, which often contains PPD.
• Para-toluenediamine sulfate (PTDS)—
PTDS is an alternative dye that some
PPD-sensitive individuals can tolerate.
• Plant-based dyes—ere is an increase
in brands that offer organic hair dyes
made from herbs and plants, providing
a natural and safer alternative.
PROCEED WITH CAUTION
While the allure of vibrant, lasting dark
hair color is undeniable, the potential health
risks posed by PPD—from severe skin
reactions to systemic toxicities—require a
cautious approach when choosing hair dye
products. Understanding these risks and
exploring safer alternatives is crucial.
Always prioritize safety measures to
protect yourself and your clients from
potential harm. By making informed choices
and advocating for safer beauty practices,
we can enjoy the benefi ts of hair coloring
without compromising our health.
Notes
1. K. S. Mukkanna, N. M. Stone, and J. R. Ingram, "Para-
Phenylenediamine Allergy: Current Perspectives on Diagnosis
and Management," Journal of Asthma and Allergy 10 (2017):
9–15, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5261844.
2. E. Seydi et al., "e Effects of Para-Phenylenediamine (PPD)
on the Skin Fibroblast Cells," Xenobiotica 49, no. 10 (October
2019): 1143–8, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30474463.
3. Vanessa Ngan, DermNet, "Allergy to Paraphenylenediamine,"
last modified August 2018, dermnetnz.org /topics/allergy-to-
paraphenylenediamine.
Resources
Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. "P-Phenylenediamine."
Accessed September 2024. safecosmetics.org /chemicals/p-
phenylenediamine.
Gude, D. et al. "Paraphenylenediamine: Blackening More than Just
Hair." Journal of Research in Medical Sciences 17, no. 6 (June 2012):
584–6. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3634302.
Katta, R. "Hair Dye Allergy from PPD (Para-phenylenediamine):
How to Avoid It and What to Use Instead." Last modified
December 28, 2022. doctorkatta.com/post/hair-dye-allergy-
from-ppda-para-phenylenediamine-how-to-avoid-it-and-what-to-
use-instead.
Made Safe. "P-phenylenediamine in Hair Dye: Why You Should
Avoid It & How to Shop Safer." June 6, 2019. madesafe.org /blogs/
viewpoint/phenylenediamine-in-hair-dye-avoid-it-shop-safer.
Zhang, M. et al. "Association of P-Phenylenediamine Exposure
with Alterations of Pulmonary Function, Pruritus and Health-
Related Quality of Life in Hair Dye Factory Workers: A Cross-
Sectional Study." Scientific Reports 13 (February 2023). nature.
com/articles/s41598-023-29721-7.
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