Colorant

Basic Blue 9

INCI: BASIC BLUE 9
CAS 61-73-4 EC 200-515-2
Phenothiazin-5-ium, 3,7-bis(dimethylamino)-, chloride (CI 52015)
Limited Data
Insufficient safety data available. Consider enriching this ingredient.
Details

Description

Phenothiazin-5-ium, 3,7-bis(dimethylamino)-, chloride (CI 52015)

Purpose

Function

Hair colorant (phenothiazinium dye); biological stain and pharmaceutical agent
Profile

Properties

Silicone
Silicone free
Compliance

Regulatory Status

EU
Permitted
Safety
MODERATE
US
Restricted
EU Max ConcentrationII/1306
Absorptionmoderate
Sensitizationmoderate
MoSnot established
NOAEL1 mg/kg
ConcernModerate
Flags
potential-allergencoloranteu_banned_cosmeticseu_cosing_listed
Verdict

Photosensitizer that generates reactive oxygen species upon light exposure; known to cause serotonin syndrome with MAOIs/SSRIs at systemic doses. Not evaluated by SCCS or CIR for cosmetic use. May cause staining to skin and nails.

US Note

Approved as a pharmaceutical (prescription drug) but not approved as a cosmetic color additive. Coal tar hair dye exemption may apply.

Assessment

Ratings

Comedogenic0/5
LowHigh
Irritancy0/5
LowHigh
Reference

Identifiers

CAS Number
61-73-4
EC Number
200-515-2
INCI
BASIC BLUE 9
Category
Colorant
Updated
Apr 23, 2026