Is p-Phenylenediamine safe during pregnancy?
The main ingredient in dark permanent dyes and a top skin allergen. Occasional dyeing is considered OK; always patch test.
What the sources say
FDA identifies PPD as the hair dye ingredient most linked to allergic reactions and says to do a skin test before every use; 'black henna' temporary tattoos can contain it and sensitize you. NHS and MotherToBaby say little dye is absorbed through healthy scalp skin and occasional dyeing in pregnancy is not expected to cause problems. Limit: patch test, gloves, no eyebrow/eyelash dyeing. Breastfeeding: little is expected in milk.
Common alternatives
Also listed as
1,4-benzenediamine, 1,4-diaminobenzene, para-phenylenediamine, paraphenylenediamine, ppd, ptd, toluene-2,5-diamine, toluene-2,5-diamine sulfate
Sources
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.