Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate
4-amino-2-methylaniline sulfate; 2-methyl-1,4-phenylenediamine sulfate
Named 2025 Allergen of the Year by the American Contact Dermatitis Society; high cross-reactivity with PPD means it is NOT safe for confirmed PPD-allergic individuals. EU requires patch test warning on label. IARC Group 2B.
Function & Common Use
Oxidative Hair Dye
Hair Dyes
Permanent hair color; marketed as PPD alternative for PPD-sensitive consumers
Synthetic
Concentration Limits
Not explicitly specified; use aligned with EU limits under BIS IS 4707
2% (calculated as free base, expressed as toluene-2,5-diamine) in ready-to-use oxidative hair color
No federal limit; use at manufacturer discretion
Restricted under MFDS Cosmetic Safety Standards; specific limit applies
Format restriction: For oxidative hair dyeing only; mandatory patch test warning; label must state 'contains phenylenediamine'
Baby restriction: Yes
Pregnancy: Yes
IFRA: No
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate safe to use in skincare?
Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate has a High concern rating. Named 2025 Allergen of the Year by the American Contact Dermatitis Society; high cross-reactivity with PPD means it is NOT safe for confirmed PPD-allergic individuals. EU requires patch test warning on label. IARC Group 2B.
Is Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate allowed in India?
Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is Not explicitly specified; use aligned with EU limits under BIS IS 4707.
What is Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate used for in cosmetics?
Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate functions as: Oxidative Hair Dye. It is commonly found in: Permanent hair color; marketed as PPD alternative for PPD-sensitive consumers.
Can Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate cause an allergic reaction?
Yes. Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate 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 Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate safe for babies?
Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate has baby/child restrictions: Yes. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
EU Annex: Annex III (restricted)
Identifiers
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