An overview of hair dye safety

Abstract

Summary Background Due to their basic reactive chemistry, the safety evaluation of hair dyes has always been a major consideration. Hair dyes are therefore one of the most studied and regulated consumer products on the market with an overwhelming amount of safety data. Yet, hair dyes continue to come under scrutiny, primarily regarding two safety concerns: First, a potential link to increased cancer risk, and second, skin allergy. Aims This paper will review epidemiologic studies regarding hair dye safety, discuss hair dye allergies incidence and consumer practices, and provide practical recommendations for dermatologists and patients. Conclusion Numerous epidemiologic studies have been conducted, evaluating a potential correlation between hair dye use and an increased risk for any possible cancer type. Taking all currently available epidemiology studies and state‐of‐the‐art safety data into account, it is concluded that hair dyes do not pose an increased cancer risk, either for consumers and clients, or for professional hairdressers. Like other products such as certain foods or drugs, hair dyes can cause allergic reactions in a few sensitive individuals. The vast majority of hair dye allergies are delayed hypersensitivity or type IV reactions. Allergic reactions to hair dyes are rare when compared to their widespread use and occur at a rate of approximately 1 per 1 million products sold. To further minimize the risk of hair dye allergies, the cosmetic industry has voluntarily implemented risk management measures. For example, all oxidative hair dye products bear allergy warning labels on pack, making consumers and hairdressers aware of a potential allergy risk. In addition, hair coloring products are equipped with clear use instructions and the majority of brands recommend conducting a skin sensitivity test 48 h before the hair coloration. Finally, professional hairdressers are advised to apply appropriate occupational safety measures (like wearing gloves). In collaboration with dermatologists, we will continue the education efforts towards consumers, clients, and hairdressers to improving the compliance with the risk management measures with the overall aim to further minimize any potential allergy risk.

Risk from exposure to arylamines from consumer products and hair dyes

“…Several of them were legally banned in Europe (put on Annex II of the EU cosmetics directive). It was concluded that taken into account the restrictions no relevant cancer risk for actual hair dye users exist (121)(122)(123). This is confirmed by the present evaluation program performed in the SCCP where all hair dyes used are critically assessed based on state of the art safety dossiers.…”

Quantitative risk assessment for skin sensitisation: Consideration of a simplified approach for hair dye ingredients

“…However, new colorant technologies that will deliver such benefits have yet to emerge (Schlatter et al, 2007).…”

“…For this reason hair colorants have been under regulatory scrutiny for many years and both regulators and manufacturers have introduced measures to increase allergy risk awareness of consumers, and to minimize such risks through provision of maximal use concentrations, specific warning labels and precise usage and safety instructions (Schlatter et al, 2007;Krasteva et al, 2010).…”

A clinical evaluation of a permanent hair dye designed to reduce allergic contact dermatitis and hair damage

“…Permanent hair dyeing can damage the hair shafts if a poorly formulated product is improperly applied to the hair. 4 Two chemical processes occur during permanent hair dye. First, oxidation of the melanin pigment occurs, lightening the natural hair color.…”