Ingredient
N,N-Bis(2-Hydroxyethyl)-P-Phenylenediamine Sulfate
N,N-Bis(2-Hydroxyethyl)-P-Phenylenediamine Sulfate is flagged for pregnancy, breastfeeding, trying to conceive and general use. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body and fetal development.
- 2,2'-[(4-Aminophenyl)imino]diethanol Sulfate
- p-Phenylenediamine Derivative
Verdict by profile
Truva checks every ingredient against six profiles. Jump to any of them for the full assessment.
- Strongest verdict
- Not Recommended
- Its verdict for pregnancy, the profile this one is worst in
- Profiles flagged
- 4 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 3 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
N,N-Bis(2-Hydroxyethyl)-P-Phenylenediamine Sulfate and pregnancy
Not Recommended
- Absorbed into the body
- Fetal development
This ingredient is an aromatic amine used in oxidative hair dyes to create permanent color. Hair dyes are applied to the scalp for extended periods, allowing for potential absorption through the skin and into the bloodstream. According to ACOG, while limited human studies exist, aromatic amines in hair dyes raise concerns due to their chemical structure and potential for systemic absorption. Animal studies on related compounds have shown reproductive effects at high doses. The scalp's rich blood supply increases absorption risk compared to other skin areas. Most obstetricians recommend minimizing exposure to chemical hair dyes during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester when fetal organ development occurs. ACOG suggests that pregnant women who choose to color their hair wait until after the first trimester and ensure proper ventilation during application. Many healthcare providers recommend semi-permanent or ammonia-free alternatives, or techniques like highlights that minimize scalp contact. The European Commission's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety continues to evaluate aromatic amine safety in hair dyes.
This one changes across the pregnancy.
- First trimester
- AVOID
- Second trimester
- CAUTION
- Third trimester
- CAUTION
N,N-Bis(2-Hydroxyethyl)-P-Phenylenediamine Sulfate and breastfeeding
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
- Infant exposure
As an aromatic amine hair dye component, this ingredient can be absorbed through the scalp during hair coloring treatments. The extent to which it transfers to breast milk has not been well-studied. While specific breastfeeding studies are lacking, aromatic amines are small enough molecules to potentially pass into breast milk if absorbed systemically. The AAD notes that most dermatologists advise caution with chemical hair dyes during breastfeeding, particularly with products that require prolonged scalp contact. Many lactation consultants suggest waiting several hours after hair dyeing before breastfeeding, washing hands thoroughly, and ensuring the baby does not come into direct contact with treated hair until it has been fully rinsed. Semi-permanent dyes with less scalp contact may be preferable during the breastfeeding period.
N,N-Bis(2-Hydroxyethyl)-P-Phenylenediamine Sulfate and postpartum
Safe to Use
- Common allergen
- Irritant
For postpartum women not breastfeeding, the primary concerns are the same as for the general population—allergic reactions and skin irritation. Postpartum hormonal changes can sometimes increase skin sensitivity. Standard precautions apply: perform a patch test before use, ensure good ventilation during application, and follow product instructions carefully. If you experience any irritation or allergic symptoms, discontinue use immediately.
N,N-Bis(2-Hydroxyethyl)-P-Phenylenediamine Sulfate and trying to conceive
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
- Builds up in tissue
While trying to conceive, many women choose to minimize exposure to chemicals with potential systemic absorption. Aromatic amine hair dyes are absorbed through the scalp and enter the bloodstream, though the amounts are typically small. There is insufficient evidence to conclude that hair dye use affects fertility, but some fertility specialists recommend reducing exposure to synthetic chemicals during the conception period as a precautionary measure. If you use hair dye while trying to conceive, consider spacing out treatments and ensuring proper ventilation.
N,N-Bis(2-Hydroxyethyl)-P-Phenylenediamine Sulfate and PCOS
Safe to Use
This hair dye ingredient does not interact with hormonal pathways or affect androgen metabolism. There is no evidence that aromatic amine hair dyes influence insulin sensitivity or other PCOS-related metabolic factors. Women with PCOS can use hair dyes containing this ingredient with the same precautions as the general population. The main concerns remain allergic reactions and skin irritation, which are not related to PCOS. Standard patch testing and proper application techniques apply. There are no PCOS-specific contraindications for using hair coloring products containing this ingredient.
N,N-Bis(2-Hydroxyethyl)-P-Phenylenediamine Sulfate and general use
Caution Advised
- Common allergen
- Irritant
- Absorbed into the body
N,N-Bis(2-Hydroxyethyl)-P-Phenylenediamine Sulfate is an oxidative hair dye ingredient used to create permanent color. It works by penetrating the hair shaft and undergoing a chemical reaction with hydrogen peroxide to form larger color molecules. According to ECHA and the European Commission's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, aromatic amine hair dyes like this ingredient can cause allergic contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals. Symptoms range from mild scalp itching to severe blistering and swelling. Repeated exposure can lead to sensitization, making future reactions more likely. The ingredient is also a moderate skin irritant even in non-allergic individuals. The EU Cosmetics Regulation requires products containing oxidative hair dyes to include warnings about allergic reactions and instructions for patch testing. Professional hair colorists are trained to perform sensitivity tests before application. If you experience itching, burning, or redness during use, rinse immediately and discontinue the product.
Everything else flagged for the same profiles
Related ingredients
Ingredients suggested in place of N,N-Bis(2-Hydroxyethyl)-P-Phenylenediamine Sulfate, each one with its own page here.
Ingredients that raise the same concerns.
Where this came from
Truva summarises published guidance from bodies including ACOG, the FDA, the EU SCCS and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. It has no access to your medical history and it is not a substitute for your doctor, dermatologist or midwife. These assessments have not been reviewed by a clinician, and nothing here is a diagnosis or a prescription. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for PCOS, take the ingredient list to the person looking after you.
Assessment last pulled from the ingredient database on .
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