Ingredient Directory
Medium ConcernVegan Evaluator Flag

4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene

4-amino-2-methylphenol; 5-amino-2-methylphenol

Safety Flags
Allergen: Yes
Safety Notes

Aminophenol-class dye intermediate with sensitization potential; used as a coupling agent in oxidative color systems. Not recommended without patch test.

Function & Common Use

Function

Oxidative Hair Dye / Coupling Agent

Category

Hair Dyes

Common In

Permanent hair color

Origin

Synthetic

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

Not explicitly specified; aligned with BIS IS 4707

EU Cosmetics Reg.

1.5% in ready-to-use oxidative hair color

US FDA (21 CFR)

No federal limit specified

Korea (MFDS)

Restricted; MFDS safety standards apply

Format restriction: Oxidative use only; label warning required; patch test recommended

Baby restriction: Yes

Pregnancy: No

IFRA: No

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene safe to use in skincare?

4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene has a Medium concern rating. Aminophenol-class dye intermediate with sensitization potential; used as a coupling agent in oxidative color systems. Not recommended without patch test.

Is 4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene allowed in India?

4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is Not explicitly specified; aligned with BIS IS 4707.

What is 4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene used for in cosmetics?

4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene functions as: Oxidative Hair Dye / Coupling Agent. It is commonly found in: Permanent hair color.

Can 4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene cause an allergic reaction?

Yes. 4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene has an allergen flag (Yes). If you have sensitive skin or known fragrance/contact allergies, patch-test products containing this ingredient before full use.

Is 4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene safe for babies?

4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene has baby/child restrictions: Yes. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.

TCS Assessment
Medium Concern
Data Confidence
Medium
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted
EU
Restricted
US FDA
Permitted
Korea (MFDS)
Restricted
Australia (TGA)
Restricted
Canada (NHPID)
Restricted

EU Annex: Annex III (restricted)

Identifiers

CAS2835-95-2
EC220-618-6

Want to check if your product contains 4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene?

Analyse a Product
WhatsApp Community

Join The Clean Sheet™ community

Science-backed beauty tips, ingredient alerts, and early access. Straight to your WhatsApp.

Join for free →