SCCS Scientific advice on hair dye ‘Basic blue 99’ (C059) (CAS No. 68123-13-7, EC No. 268-544-3) - Submissions IV & V

SCCS members: U. Bernauer, L. Bodin, Q. Chaudhry, P.J. Coenraads (Chairperson), J. Ezendam, E. Gaffet, C. L. Galli, E. Panteri (Rapporteur), V. Rogiers, Ch. Rousselle, M. Stepnik, T. Vanhaecke, S. Wijnhoven
SCCS external experts: E. Benfenati, N. Cabaton, E. Corsini, Ch. Delmaar, A. Koutsodimou, H. Louro, W. Uter, N. von Goetz 
Contact: SANTE-SCCSec [dot] europa [dot] eu (SANTE-SCCS[at]ec[dot]europa[dot]eu)
On request from: European Commission
SCCS Number: SCCS/1683/25
Adopted on: 30 October 2025

Conclusion of the opinion:

(1) In light of the data provided, does the SCCS consider Basic Blue 99 safe, when used as an ingredient at 1 % in non-oxidative hair dye formulations?

Having evaluated all the available data, the SCCS does not consider the use of Basic Blue 99 safe for use as an ingredient in non-oxidative hair dye formulations because the collective evidence indicates a potential for genotoxicity.

(2) Does the SCCS have any further scientific concerns with regard to the use of Basic Blue 99 in cosmetic products?

Although there is an uncertainty regarding the exact composition of Basic Blue 99 batch that caused (partly severe) immediate-type hypersensitivity reactions, the SCCS considers this an alert for such a risk with the current batch specifications under consideration. The SCCS regards Basic Blue 99 a skin sensitiser.

Keywords:

SCCS, scientific advice, hair dye, Basic Blue 99, C059, 3-[(4-amino-6-bromo-5,8-dihydro-1-hydroxy-8-imino-5-oxo-2-naphtyl)amino]-N,N,N-trimethylanilinium chloride, CAS No. 68123-13-7, EC No. 268-544-3, submission IV & V, Regulation 1223/2009

Opinion to be cited as:

SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety), Scientific Advice on hair dye ‘Basic blue 99’ (C059) (CAS No. 68123-13-7, EC No. 268-544-3) – submission IV & V, preliminary version of 30 October 2025, SCCS/1683/25.