What is
PPD/PTD?
PPD (p-Phenylenediamine) and the structurally-related 1,4-toluenediamine (PTD) is an organic compound used in over
99% of all permanent hair dyes, as well as in a variety of other sources such
as some Henna Tattoos, Semi-permanent makeup and even black clothing.
It is illegal for cosmetic products other than hair dyes to
contain PPD/PTD so mascaras, eyeliners and dark eyeshadows are always PPD/PTD
free.
PPD/PTD allergies have the potential to affect 1.5% of the
population and allergic reactions range from mild irritations to severe
reaction that in rare cases may require hospitalisation.
If you’re mildly irritated to PPD/PTD your scalp, neck,
forehead or ears may become red, sore and inflamed. You may feel a burning
sensation and blisters or cracks may appear. The severity of such a reaction
differs from person to person. Those with a very mild reaction to PPD/PTD may
find symptoms appear within 48 hours.
PPD/PTD may also trigger a general unwell feeling and a rash
all over the body; this is a more serious reaction and can happen up to days
after PPD/PTD use.
If you are severely allergic to PPD/PTD your scalp, face and
mouth will feel itchy and begin to swell almost immediately after use and you
may begin wheezing or in extreme cases even collapse, this is known as
anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and requires an ambulance.
I’m worried about PPD/PTD
Hair dyes containing PPD/PTD are safe to use, providing
safety instructions are followed. These products are strictly regulated
and there's a maximum limit to the amount of PPD/PTD the product can contain.
It’s best to follow the safety instructions carefully and always carry out a
patch test prior to each colouring application.
How can I avoid PPD/PTD
If you’ve had even a mild reaction to PPD/PTD, you should avoid
using products that contain PPD/PTD altogether as there is a risk that you may
develop a more serious reaction in the future, as your immune system will
remember the chemical and automatically launch a defence reaction when you next
use PPD/PTD. You can choose to colour your hair without PPD/PTD with a gentle
dye like Natures Grey Busters.
Why should I use a PPD/PTD Free Hair Colour?
Natures Grey Busters are a range of PPD/PTD free hair colours
and contain no ammonia or peroxide, this means they are gentler on the hair and
scalp and can last up to 8 shampoos. This gentle formulation means hair is left
in better condition than it was prior to colouring.
All 4 shades are easy to apply as there is no mixing
required.
As with all hair colours we do recommend you do perform a
skin allergy test 48 hours prior to application. Details on how to perform a
skin allergy test are available on the instruction leaflet in every Natures
Grey Busters box.
Colour your grey the safe and natural way with Natures Grey
Busters. Available at www.naturesgreybusters.co.uk or find us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/naturesgreybusters/