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Quick answer: Formaldehyde (free) carries the heavier risk profile. Formaldehyde (free) is banned in the EU and allowed in the US; p-Phenylenediamine is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Formaldehyde (free) | p-Phenylenediamine |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Banned | Restricted |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | high | high |
| Banned in | European Union | — |
| Restricted in | — | European Union |
| Category | cmr | cmr |
| Where it hides | nail hardener, keratin treatment, eyelash glue | permanent hair dye, black henna tattoos |
Formaldehyde (free) is free formaldehyde used directly as a preservative and in salon hair treatments.
p-Phenylenediamine is a primary intermediate in permanent hair dye.
Formaldehyde (free): A known human carcinogen (IARC Group 1). Banned from direct use in EU cosmetics; allowed in US products with limited oversight.
p-Phenylenediamine: A potent allergen and sensitizer. Strictly concentration-limited in the EU; less tightly controlled in the US.
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