SCCS Issued Scientific Advice on Hair Dye Basic Brown 16 (C009) and Basic Blue 99 (C059)

On November 17, 2025, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) of the European Union issued scientific advice open for comment on hair dye Basic Brown 16 (C009) (SCCS/1684/25) and Basic blue 99 (C059) (SCCS/1683/25). The deadline for comments is set for January 19, 2026.

Scientific Advice on Basic Brown 16 (C009) and Basic Blue 99 (C059)

Basic Brown 16 (C009) (CAS No. 26381-41-9):

Having assessed the data provided, the SCCS does not consider the use of Basic Brown 16 safe when used as an ingredient in non-oxidative hair dye formulations because the weight of evidence indicates its potential for mutagenicity.

Basic blue 99 (C059)(CAS No. 68123-13-7):

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.

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 as a skin sensitiser.

Interpretation of Basic Brown 16 (C009) and Basic Blue 99 (C059)

The Global Cosmetic Ingredient Regulatory Database – Global CosIng, independently developed by CIRS Group, indicates that Basic Brown 16 (C009) and Basic Blue 99 (C059) are both included in the following key lists globally.

In China, Basic Brown 16 (C009) and Basic blue 99 (C059) have not been included in the List of Hair-dyes Allowed in Cosmetic Products.

For more detailed information about Global CosIng or if you need any assistance or have any questions, please get in touch with us via service@cirs-group.com.

Further Information

https://health.ec.europa.eu/document/download/189b7e0f-5d91-4bea-ae82-7efdd8bae8d4_en?filename=sccs_o_305.pdf

https://health.ec.europa.eu/document/download/10e3d810-e66f-4218-8690-8d01bd03cf20_en?filename=sccs_o_304.pdf