The danger of PPD in your hair colouring

More and more people are becoming aware of the ingredients they use on their skin and in their hair. However, one substance remains stubbornly present in many chemical hair colouring products: PPD, short for para-phenylenediamine. Although this dye has been the subject of discussion within the beauty industry for years, many consumers do not know what risks are associated with it. As an expert in natural hair care, Hairborist is happy to explain this issue and offer a safe alternative without harmful substances.

What is PPD (para-phenylenediamine)

PPD is a synthetic allergenic dye that is often used in dark, chemical hair colourings. The substance penetrates deep into the hair fibre, allowing the colour to last longer. In this way, the hair retains the colouring for a longer period of time. At first sight this may seem like an advantage, but the process involves an aggressive chemical reaction that can damage both the hair and the scalp.

Due to its high allergenic potential, PPD was banned by European legislation in 2005 in cosmetic products that come into direct contact with the skin. Hair colouring is an exception to this rule. Although PPD may still be used, the maximum permitted concentration is limited to 6 percent. Even at this low dose, however, the substance remains particularly risky.

What are the risks of para-phenylenediamine

1. Severe allergic reactions

The biggest risk is the development of severe allergic reactions. PPD is known as one of the most allergenic ingredients in cosmetics. Strong reactions can already occur during the first application.

Typical symptoms include:

• eczema on the scalp
• swelling of the face
• itching, redness or burning sensation
• blisters or moist, inflamed areas

In severe cases, a reaction can even lead to breathing difficulties. Immediate medical consultation is then required.

2. Risks for professional hairdressers

Not only consumers are at risk. Hairdressers who work daily with chemical colouring are also affected. For them, added PPD is often the main cause of allergic reactions. It also increases the risk of contact allergies and respiratory conditions.

Many hairdressers develop after years of exposure:

• chronic dermatitis
• severe skin damage
• occupational asthma

Research also shows an increased incidence of bladder and throat cancer with long-term exposure to harmful dyes, including PPD.

It is clear that this substance poses a threat to both the client and the professional.

PPD or para-phenylenediamine also has many other names

PPD appears under many different names in ingredient lists. Because of this, consumers often do not recognise the substance. Be aware of this. Always check your products carefully. Other names include:

• 1,4-phenylenediamine
• 4-aminoaniline
• p-diaminobenzene
• C.I. 76060
• p-phenylenediamine
• 1,4-diaminobenzene
• …

Switch to natural hair colouring

Chemical dyes such as PPD damage the hair fibre and carry health risks. Fortunately, there is a safe alternative that not only colours the hair but also cares for it at the same time: natural plant-based colouring.

The benefits of natural hair colouring from Hairborist:

1. Free from PPD and other harmful substances

The natural hair colourings from Hairborist are completely free from PPD (para-phenylenediamine), ammonia, oxidants, resorcinol, parabens and other aggressive chemical substances often found in classic hair colouring. This means:

• no risk of chemical burns
• greatly reduced risk of allergic reactions
• no damage to the hair structure
• no toxic fumes for the hairdresser or the client

Our colour formulas consist solely of finely ground plants, leaves, flowers and bark, without synthetic additives. This makes Hairborist a safe choice for anyone seeking conscious, healthy and future-oriented hair colouring.

2. A protective layer around the hair

Plant-based colouring works differently from classic oxidative colouring. Unlike chemical dyes, plant colouring does not penetrate the core of the hair. It envelops the hair fibre like a protective cocoon. The result:

• more strength: the hair fibre gains extra structure because the pigments attach around the hair
  intense shine: the protective layer reflects light and gives the hair a healthy shine
• volume and thickness: the enveloping effect makes each hair slightly fuller, which is especially transformative for fine or lifeless hair
• better resilience: less hair breakage, fewer split ends and a stronger natural shield against external aggressions

3. Suitable for sensitive scalps

For clients with sensitive skin or allergic reactions to classic colouring, natural hair colouring is often a revelation.

The plant colouring works on the surface and does not penetrate the skin, the ingredients are mild, organic and non-irritating, and no synthetic fragrances, preservatives or hormone-disrupting substances are used. Even for very sensitive scalps or after previous allergic reactions, Hairborist offers a safe and well-tolerated solution.

4. Environmentally friendly and sustainable

Natural hair colouring also means a conscious choice for the planet.

Our plant colourings are:

• 100% biodegradable: only plant-based substances are released after use and these are completely broken down by nature
• based on pure plant extracts: such as henna, indigo, cassia, hibiscus and other botanical pigments
• sustainably produced: without polluting processes or petrochemical raw materials
• packaged with minimal impact: recyclable and environmentally conscious packaging

By choosing Hairborist, you support a circular, green approach to hair care, without the ecological footprint of classic chemical dyes.

Time for a healthy choice

PPD is an ingredient that carries serious risks for both the consumer and the hairdresser. It is therefore wise to choose hair colouring that respects the hair and does not cause damage.

At Hairborist, you can count on natural, plant-based dyes, safe formulas without toxic substances and a gentle approach that strengthens and nourishes the hair.

Would you like to learn more about our natural plant colouring?
Discover everything about Hairborist colouring here and why more and more hairdressers and clients are making the switch to a healthier alternative.