JIST

Abstract

Aim: To develop and validate a modified Simon's test as a simple, rapid, and cost-effective method for detecting paraphenylenediamine (PPD) in hair dyes and biological samples.

Materials and Methods:Twelve commercial hair dye formulations (black and dark brown) and natural controls (henna, indigo) were obtained from the local market in Kochi, Kerala. Urine samples spiked with PPD (50 ppm) were also tested. The modified Simon's test involved adding sodium nitroprusside (10%) and sodium carbonate (2%) to prepared dye or urine solutions and observing color changes. The appearance of a deep blue color was interpreted as a positive result for PPD.

Results: All 12 commercial hair dye products tested positive for PPD at both 50 ppm and 100 ppm. Natural henna and indigo controls were consistently negative. Spiked urine samples also yielded positive results, confirming the test's sensitivity to detect PPD at 50 ppm.

Conclusion: The modified Simon's test is a rapid, inexpensive, and sensitive presumptive screening tool for PPD detection in cosmetic formulations and biological samples. Although qualitative in nature and limited by sample diversity, the method holds promise for application in clinical toxicology and forensic practice where advanced instrumentation is unavailable