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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Cosmetics

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    Q&A: Hair Dyes


    What precautions should you take if you dye your hair?

    People who dye their hair should follow these safety precautions:

    • Follow the directions in the package. Pay attention to all "Caution" and "Warning" statements.
    • Do a patch test before using dye on your hair. Here's how: Rub a tiny bit of the dye on the inside of your elbow or behind your ear. Leave it there for two days. If you get a rash, don't use the dye on your hair. You should do the test each time you dye your hair. (Salons should also do the patch test before dyeing your hair.)
    • Never dye your eyebrows or eyelashes. This can hurt your eyes. You might even go blind. FDA does not allow using hair dyes on eyelashes and eyebrows.
    • Keep hair dyes out of the reach of children.
    • Don't leave the dye on longer than the directions say you should.
    • Rinse your scalp well with water after dyeing.
    • Wear gloves when you apply the hair dye.
    • Never mix different hair dye products. This can hurt your hair and scalp.

    To learn more, see Hair Dye and Hair Relaxers.

     

    FDA Basics Cosmetics Page

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