INCI name

2-METHOXYMETHYL-P-PHENYLENEDIAMINE

2-Methoxymethyl-p-phenylenediamine

Hair dyeingreviewed

An aromatic amine used in oxidative hair dyes, regulated in Annex III.

What it is

2-Methoxymethyl-p-phenylenediamine is a substituted aromatic amine derived from p-phenylenediamine, used as a primary intermediate in oxidative hair dyes. CosIng lists it as a hair-dyeing ingredient. In the EU it is covered by an entry in Annex III (substances subject to restrictions), which also requires warnings on the label.

Where it is used

Found in permanent hair colours and eyelash tinting products.

Limits of interpretation

The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.

See the EU regulation section for the applicable limits and conditions. The label does not show its concentration or which other dye components it is combined with.

Functions

Hair dyeing
Imparting color to hair. Hair dyeing preparations may be temporary, semi-permanent, permanent, depending on the length of time the colorant remains on the hair.

EU regulation

EU · Annex III, entry 2921,4-Benzenediamine, 2-(methoxymethyl) 1,4-Benzenediamine, 2-(methoxymethyl)-, sulfate
Product type
(a) Hair dye substance in oxidative hair dye products (b) Products intended for colouring eyelashes
Conditions and warnings
(a) To be printed on the label: The mixing ratio. ‘! Hair colorants can cause severe allergic reactions. Read and follow instructions. This product is not intended for use on persons under the age of 16. Temporary “black henna” tattoos may increase your risk of allergy. Do not colour your hair if: — you have a rash on your face or sensitive, irritated and damaged scalp, — you have ever experienced any reaction after colouring your hair, — you have experienced a reaction to a temporary “black henna” tattoo in the past.’ (b) To be printed on the label: The mixing ratio. ‘! This product can cause severe allergic reactions. Read and follow instructions. This product is not intended for use on persons under the age of 16. Temporary “black henna” tattoos may increase the risk of allergy. Eyelashes shall not be coloured if the consumer: — has a rash on the face or sensitive, irritated and damaged scalp, — has experienced any reaction after colouring hair or eyelashes, — has experienced a reaction to a temporary “black henna” tattoo in the past. For professional use only. Rinse eyes immediately if product comes into contact with them.’
As of
3 November 2026 · (EU) 2020/1683

Products with this ingredient (7)

Check a full ingredient list