P-Phenylenediamine

This patient information on P-Phenylenediamine is provided by John L. Meisenheimer, M.D. a board certified Dermatologist and skin care specialist based in Orlando, Florida. This information is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice or treatment of a dermatologist or other physician.

The results from your patch testing showed a positive reaction (contact allergy) to p-Phenylenediamine. Your immune system reacts with its defense mechanisms with each exposure of p-Phenylenediamine to your skin. It is unknown why certain individuals develop allergic sensitivities. In some it may take repeat exposures over long periods of time before an allergy develops. Once you have become sensitized (allergic) your immune system always “remembers” and you will continue to be p-Phenylenediamine sensitive. If you currently have eczema this chemical may be the cause but other factors may play a role as well. The information below will help you avoid this allergen.

This chemical agent is the primary ingredient in permanent hair dyes.

Where is chemical found?

Black rubber
Cosmetics (dark colored)
Fabric dyes
Fur dyes
Gasoline
Greases
Lithography (printing inks)
Oils
Permanent hair dyes
Photocopying ink
Photographic developer
Plastic
Printing ink

Hints on avoiding chemical:

Ask your hairdresser for dyes free of p-phenylenediamine.
Hairdressers use vinyl gloves to protect hands from contact when using hair dyes.
Check for use in dark colored clothing (blue, black or brown).
Individuals that have sensitivity to this chemical may also cross react with PABA containing sunscreens, Benzocaine and “sulfa” drugs.
Let your primary physician you have an allergy to para phenylenediamine.
Choose products listed only on your personalized contact allergen database, which has been provided to you. Products listed on your contact allergen resource database will be free of p-Phenylenediamine and safe to use.
It may take 2 to 3 weeks of avoiding exposure before improvement of your eruption begins.

Other names you may see this chemical listed as:

1,4 Benzenediamine
1,4 Phenylenediamine
4-Phenylenediamine
C.I. 76076
Orsin
Para-aminoaniline (p-aminoaniline)
Para-diaminobenzene
Paraphenylenediamine (PPD or PPDA)
Phenylenediamine base
Rodol D
Ursol D

Possible Occupational Exposure:

Hairdressers and cosmetologists