Dark & Lovely Espresso
At a glance
Summary
Dark & Lovely Espresso scores 7/100 due to confirmed Dichloromethane contamination at 6.4 mg/Kg (Consumer Reports, April 2026) — the second-highest level among L'Oréal-portfolio dyes tested. Dichloromethane (methylene chloride) is a probable human carcinogen (IARC Group 2A) that the EPA banned for most consumer uses in 2024. Phthalates were not detected, but the formula stacks p-Phenylenediamine (PPD), Resorcinol, BHT, ammonia, and hydrogen peroxide — all applied directly to the scalp.
Key ingredients 6
Dichloromethane (6.4 mg/Kg — confirmed contamination)Very Bad
Consumer Reports detected Dichloromethane (methylene chloride) at 6.4 mg/Kg in this product in April 2026 testing — the second-highest level among L'Oréal-portfolio hair dyes tested. Dichloromethane is classified as a probable human carcinogen by IARC (Group 2A) and is linked to liver damage and central nervous system depression. The EPA banned most consumer uses of methylene chloride in 2024 due to its serious health risks.
See more about Dichloromethane (6.4 mg/Kg — confirmed contamination) →p-Phenylenediamine (PPD)Very Bad
PPD is one of the most common causes of severe allergic contact dermatitis in cosmetic chemistry. Sensitization can be permanent and reactions can escalate from mild itching to severe facial swelling and life-threatening anaphylaxis with repeated use.
See more about p-Phenylenediamine (PPD) →Parfum (Fragrance)Very Bad
Generic 'Parfum' is an undisclosed mixture that can legally contain dozens to hundreds of individual chemicals, including phthalates used as fragrance fixatives.
See more about Parfum (Fragrance) →ResorcinolBad
Resorcinol is a synthetic phenol hair dye coupler. The EU SCCS has flagged it as a suspected endocrine disruptor (thyroid interference) and a known skin sensitizer.
See more about Resorcinol →BHTBad
Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) is a synthetic antioxidant preservative with concerns about endocrine disruption and potential carcinogenicity at higher doses.
See more about BHT →Ammonium Hydroxide / Hydrogen PeroxideBad
Ammonia opens the hair cuticle and hydrogen peroxide oxidizes natural pigment. The combination is a strong skin and respiratory irritant and can cause scalp burns.
See more about Ammonium Hydroxide / Hydrogen Peroxide →Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping
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