Article last updated: October 15, 2024
1-Naphthol, also known by its chemical identifier CI 76605, is a compound primarily used in the cosmetic industry for hair dyeing. This ingredient is derived from naphthalene, a hydrocarbon found in coal tar and petroleum. Chemically, 1-Naphthol is a type of phenol, specifically a naphthalen-1-ol, which means it has a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to the first carbon of a naphthalene ring.
The history of 1-Naphthol in cosmetics dates back to the early 20th century when synthetic dyes began to replace natural dyes. Its effectiveness in providing vibrant and long-lasting color made it a popular choice among manufacturers. Over the years, it has been refined and tested to ensure its safety and efficacy in hair dye formulations.
The production of 1-Naphthol involves a chemical process known as sulfonation, where naphthalene is treated with sulfuric acid to produce naphthalene sulfonic acid. This intermediate is then subjected to a hydrolysis reaction, resulting in the formation of 1-Naphthol. This process ensures a high purity of the final product, making it suitable for use in various cosmetic applications.
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized cosmetic benefits and uses of 1-Naphthol:
1-Naphthol is primarily used in the cosmetic industry as a hair dyeing agent. This means it plays a crucial role in changing or enhancing the color of your hair. When included in hair dye formulations, 1-Naphthol helps achieve a desired shade by reacting with other chemical components to produce a stable and long-lasting color. Whether you’re looking to cover grays, add highlights, or completely change your hair color, 1-Naphthol is one of the ingredients that makes this transformation possible.
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).
1-Naphthol, while effective as a hair dyeing agent, comes with certain considerations regarding its safety, suitability, and allergenic potential. Here are some potential side effects of topical application of this ingredient:
Regarding individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, data and research on the topical usage of 1-Naphthol during pregnancy are lacking. Therefore, it is advisable for these individuals to consult a healthcare professional for further advice before using products containing this ingredient.
Side effects and adverse reactions from 1-Naphthol are relatively uncommon, but they can occur. It is recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there are no adverse reactions.
In terms of comedogenicity, 1-Naphthol has a rating of 2 on a scale of 0 to 5, where 0 is totally non-comedogenic and 5 is highly comedogenic. This means that while it is relatively low on the scale, individuals who are prone to acne, blemishes, or breakouts should still exercise caution when using products containing this ingredient.
