The aim of this focus action was to check the content of color precursors in eyelash dyes with regard to conformity with the requirements of Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009. 20 samples from Lower Austria, Tyrol and Vienna were examined. Four samples were objected:

• two samples contained inadmissible color precursors: they contained substances that are inadmissible for eyelash dyes or substances that have been assessed as unsafe
• two samples contained a substance in excess in relation to the coupler compound used, so that a dangerous reaction product can form

Whether certain substances (developers e.g. p-phenylenediamine PPD) pose a risk depends on other ingredients. The products must contain so-called coupler substances that bind the PPD and prevent a further reaction to form harmful substances (such as Bandrowski base). Developer and coupler substances combine under the influence of hydrogen peroxide to form a harmless, permanent color pigment that penetrates the hair.