Coal Tar

High Concern

Coal Tar Derivative

Also known as

coal tarcoal tar dyecoal tar pitchp-phenylenediamineppddiaminobenzene1,4-phenylenediamine

The concern

IARC Group 1 carcinogen for coal tar pitch. Coal tar dyes used in hair colours (PPD, diaminobenzene) are potent allergens and probable human carcinogens. EU restricts many coal tar dyes; Canada restricts coal tar in dandruff shampoos.

Read the source: IARC / EWG

What to look for on labels

This ingredient may appear under any of the following names or codes on product labels:

Coal Tar
coal tar
coal tar dye
coal tar pitch
p-phenylenediamine
ppd
diaminobenzene
1,4-phenylenediamine

Learn more

Read the full evidence directly from the authoritative source.

View source — IARC / EWG

Data sourced from IARC, FDA, EFSA, WHO and EWG public data. For informational purposes only. This does not constitute medical or legal advice.

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