Basic Brown 17: An In-Depth Look at Its Role in Cosmetics

What Is Basic Brown 17?

Basic Brown 17, also known by its chemical name [8-[(4-Amino-3-nitrophenyl)azo]-7-hydroxy-2-naphthyl]trimethylammonium chloride (CI 12251), is a synthetic dye primarily used in hair coloring products. This ingredient belongs to the azo dye family, which is characterized by the presence of the functional group R-N=N-R’, where R and R’ can be either aryl or alkyl. The “Basic” in its name refers to its classification as a basic dye, meaning it is cationic and typically used in alkaline conditions.

The history of Basic Brown 17 dates back to the early developments in synthetic dyes during the 19th and 20th centuries. Initially, synthetic dyes were created to replace natural dyes, which were often inconsistent in quality and supply. Over time, the cosmetic industry adopted these synthetic dyes for their reliability and vibrant color outcomes. Basic Brown 17 became popular in hair dye formulations due to its ability to produce a rich, brown hue that is both long-lasting and resistant to fading.

The production of Basic Brown 17 involves a series of chemical reactions starting with the nitration of aniline to produce 4-nitroaniline. This compound is then diazotized and coupled with 7-hydroxy-2-naphthylamine to form the azo compound. The final step involves quaternization with trimethylamine to produce the trimethylammonium chloride salt, resulting in the water-soluble dye known as Basic Brown 17. This meticulous process ensures the consistency and quality of the dye, making it a reliable ingredient in hair coloring products.

The Benefits/Uses of Basic Brown 17

In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized cosmetic benefits and uses of Basic Brown 17:

Hair Dyeing

Basic Brown 17 is primarily used as a hair dye. This means it is an ingredient that imparts color to the hair. When included in hair dye formulations, Basic Brown 17 helps achieve a brown hue, which can range from light to dark shades depending on the concentration and other components in the product. This makes it a valuable ingredient for those looking to change or enhance their hair color to a brown tone.

Note: the listed benefits above are exclusively based on the officially recognized and defined functions of the ingredient, as documented by the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI).

Potential Side Effects & Other Considerations

Basic Brown 17, like many cosmetic ingredients, has its own set of safety considerations and potential side effects. While it is generally considered safe for use in hair dyeing products, there are some important factors to keep in mind.

• Skin irritation
• Allergic reactions
• Contact dermatitis

Regarding individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, data and research on the topical usage of Basic Brown 17 during pregnancy and breastfeeding are lacking. Therefore, it is advisable for these individuals to consult a healthcare professional for further advice before using products containing this ingredient.

Adverse reactions to Basic Brown 17 are relatively uncommon, but they can occur. It is recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure that you do not have an adverse reaction to the ingredient.

In terms of comedogenicity, Basic Brown 17 has a rating of 1 on a scale of 0 to 5, where 0 is totally non-comedogenic and 5 is highly comedogenic. This low rating means it is unlikely to clog pores and cause acne or breakouts, making it generally suitable for individuals prone to blemishes.