Ingredient Directory
Medium ConcernVegan Evaluator Flag

HC Yellow No. 4

2-((2-nitro-4-((2-hydroxyethyl)amino)phenyl)amino)ethanol; N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2-nitro-p-phenylenediamine

Safety Flags
Allergen: Yes
Safety Notes

Nitrophenylenediamine-class direct dye; sensitization potential. EU permits use at 1.5% in non-oxidative dyes. Skin contact and eye contact should be minimized.

Function & Common Use

Function

Direct Hair Dye

Category

Hair Dyes

Common In

Semi-permanent hair color, fashion hair color

Origin

Synthetic

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

Not explicitly specified; permitted under BIS IS 4707

EU Cosmetics Reg.

1.5% in non-oxidative (direct) hair dye products

US FDA (21 CFR)

No federal limit specified

Korea (MFDS)

Restricted; MFDS safety standards apply

Format restriction: Non-oxidative (direct) hair dye use only; label warning required; avoid eye contact

Baby restriction: Yes

Pregnancy: No

IFRA: No

Frequently Asked Questions

Is HC Yellow No. 4 safe to use in skincare?

HC Yellow No. 4 has a Medium concern rating. Nitrophenylenediamine-class direct dye; sensitization potential. EU permits use at 1.5% in non-oxidative dyes. Skin contact and eye contact should be minimized.

Is HC Yellow No. 4 allowed in India?

HC Yellow No. 4 is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is Not explicitly specified; permitted under BIS IS 4707.

What is HC Yellow No. 4 used for in cosmetics?

HC Yellow No. 4 functions as: Direct Hair Dye. It is commonly found in: Semi-permanent hair color, fashion hair color.

Can HC Yellow No. 4 cause an allergic reaction?

Yes. HC Yellow No. 4 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 HC Yellow No. 4 safe for babies?

HC Yellow No. 4 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
High
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

CAS59820-43-8
EC261-940-7

Want to check if your product contains HC Yellow No. 4?

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 →