2-Amino-5-nitrophenol is produced from 2-aminophenol by reaction with acetic anhydride to form 2-methylbenzoxazole, which is nitrated and hydrolysed to form 2-amino5-nitrophenol. It was first sythesized by Kaltwasser and Oehrn In 1920. 2-Amino-5-nitrophenol is used as an intermediate in the manufacture of several azo dyes, including CI Solvent Red 8, which is used for colouring synthetic resins, lacquers, inks and wood stains. 2-Amino-5-nitrophenol is also used in many countries as a dye in semi-permanent hair colouring products to produce red and gold-blond shades. These products are generally shampooed into the hair, lathered and then allowed to remain in contact with the hair and scalp for 30-45 min. For this application, 2-amino-5-nitrophenol is mixed (at levels up to 0.5 %) with a blend of several other dyes in a shampoo base to produce the final colour or tint desired. It has been used (and still is to a limited extent) in permanent hair colouring products. The use of 2-amino-5-nitrophenol in cosme tic products is prohibited in the European Economic Community.