Found in most commercial permanent hair dyes, PPD is linked with skin irritations, eczema, and respiratory disorders. It can react with other chemicals to cause photosensitivity. PPD is mutagenic (capable of altering DNA codes, a precursor to cancers) and reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen. Also called oxidation dyes, amino dyes, para dyes, or peroxide dyes. It has been banned in Europe. The US Food and Drug Administration proposed legislation would require warning labels on products, advising that this ingredient can penetrate skin and has been determined to cause cancer in lab animals. Health Canada considers hair dye made with PPD to be safe and is an acceptable ingredient when used correctly, in products that do not come in contact with skin for a long period of time. Health Canada strongly advises a "patch test" for hair dye. The Skin Deep cosmetic safety database rates this ingredient  at 10/10 and is also listed on their dirty dozen (ingredients to avoid list).

Commonly used in cold creams, conditioning creams, eye pencils and shadows, baby products and lipsticks (used as a lubricant in lipsticks for smooth application and shine). Provides a barrier on the skin which can protect the skin from irritation but also prevents the skin from taking in oxygen and respiring out waste. Petrolatum can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. It is a purified mixture of semisolid hydrocarbons from petroleum - a reported cancer causing ingredients. Its use depletes a non-renewable resource. Prohibited for use in cosmetics in the European Union.