Abstract
1-Naphthol, a phenol, is used as a coupler in hair dyes and colors at concentrations below 1.0%. Animal studies indicate that this compound at low concentrations is neither an eye nor skin irritant. The human exposure of this ingredient is as a component of hair dyes and not as a pure ingredient. 1-Naphthol has an LD50 of 2.3 g/kg. No significant toxicity findings were reported in either subchronic or chronic studies. Hair dyes containing this ingredient when dermally applied were neither teratogenic nor carcinogenic. It is concluded that 1-Naphthol may be safely used in cosmetic products in the present practices of use and concentration.