M-Aminophenol

What is M-Aminophenol?

M-Aminophenol, or 3-aminophenol, is a synthetic organic compound with the formula C6H4(NH2)(OH), characterized by an amino group and a hydroxyl group attached to a benzene ring in the meta position. It belongs to the class of aminophenols and is employed solely in hair cosmetics, specifically permanent oxidative hair colorants. In formulations, it acts as a secondary intermediate or coupler. During the dyeing process, it undergoes oxidation with hydrogen peroxide and couples with primary dye intermediates, such as para-phenylenediamine derivatives, to generate insoluble, colored polymeric azines or indamines. These large molecules diffuse into the hair cortex, oxidatively bind to cysteine residues in keratin, and produce durable color deposits resistant to washing. This mechanism supports shade customization, particularly warmer tones like browns, while enabling gray coverage. It is not intended for skin contact products due to regulatory limits on non-hair uses.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 5 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Hair colorant
Delivers hair color through dyes and/or pigments (direct or oxidative systems), producing a visible shade change and supporting coverage and longevity.
Hair dyeing
Supports chemical color change of hair (e.g., oxidative dye development or bleaching), enabling shade transformation through controlled reactions on the fiber.

Benefits

Facilitates permanent color changes in hair through oxidative coupling reactions.

Contributes to fade-resistant shades with enhanced longevity.

Supports even dye penetration for consistent coverage across hair fibers.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People seeking long-lasting professional or at-home hair color transformations.
Those with prior reactions to hair dye ingredients.
Individuals desiring customizable brown or blended tones in permanent dyes.
People with sensitive scalps or eczema history.
Users comfortable with patch testing for oxidative hair dye systems.
Individuals skipping pre-use allergy patch tests.

Safety Notes

  • Potential to induce allergic contact dermatitis, especially with repeated exposure.
  • Regulated in hair dyes with mandatory warnings for sensitization risks.

Frequently Asked Questions about M-Aminophenol

What role does m-aminophenol play in cosmetics?

It serves as a coupler in oxidative permanent hair dyes to develop stable color molecules.

Can m-aminophenol cause skin issues?

Yes, it may trigger allergic reactions; perform a patch test 48 hours before use.

Is m-aminophenol suitable for all hair types?

It works in oxidative systems for various hair but requires caution for sensitive users.