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Dr Emma Meredith, Director-General of CTPA and a pharmacist says: “CTPA and I very much welcome this ruling from the ASA, as it underlines the importance of protecting allergic consumers from experiencing reactions which can be very serious. Ensuring that cosmetic product claims are accurate and not misleading is crucial in preventing serious allergic reactions and safeguarding public health.”
The ASA (Advertising Standards Authority) has issued a ruling today, upholding a complaint from the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association (CTPA) about para-phenylenediamine free (PPD-free) claims on hair dyes containing a related chemical, toluene-2,5 diamine sulfate (PTD), which can also cause allergic reactions in PPD-allergic consumers.
CTPA has raised serious concerns regarding the safety of consumers using a PPD-Free Permanent Hair Colour marketed by the company named in the adjudication. The company has been making prominent 'PPD-free' claims on a range of hair dyes that contain the PPD-related chemical, toluene-2,5-diamine sulfate.
Following an unsuccessful approach to the company where CTPA raised its concerns over such claims and the associated safety implications, CTPA submitted a formal complaint to the ASA. The concerns are that the product range's name and associated marketing information on the website may put consumers at serious risk. This is because they may encourage individuals with an allergy to PPD to seek out and use products from this range, potentially leading to allergic reactions. CTPA considers that 'PPD-free' claims on products containing chemicals from the PPD or PTD family, such as toluene-2,5-diamine sulfate, are misleading. Consumers allergic to PPD are likely to experience similar allergic reactions to PPD/PTD-related compounds, which can be just as severe. In rare cases, allergic reactions to PPD may result in anaphylaxis, posing an immediate risk to life.
CTPA has an FAQ on its public website, stating that hair dyes containing PPD, PTD, or other related ingredients must not claim to be 'PPD-free'.
Additionally, CTPA has published a Position Paper outlining the Association’s view on the responsible use of 'free-from' claims.
About CTPA
The Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association Limited (CTPA) is the UK trade association representing all types of companies involved in making, supplying and selling cosmetics and personal care products. As the credible authority for a vibrant and innovative UK industry trusted to act responsibly for the benefit of the consumer, CTPA promotes best practices and advises companies about the strict legal framework for cosmetics and personal care products. Representing industry views to the UK Government and external stakeholders CTPA also provides information to the media on many topics relating to cosmetic products and the cosmetics industry in general.
Media enquiries: [email protected]
CTPA website: www.ctpa.org.uk
CTPA consumer website: www.thefactsabout.co.uk
