Using Hair Dyes Safely

Hair dye is used to color hair but if not used properly it can hurt your skin, hair and eyes. There are certain ways to use hair dye safely and places where it should not be used. To protect yourself, you should know how to safely use hair dyes.

Hair dye is sold in stores and used in beauty parlors in assorted variations. Some are permanent and can not be washed out with shampoo. Others will wash out after a certain number of shampoos. The product label will tell you how long the dye is expected to last. Progressive hair dyes change your hair color little by little, making hair a bit darker with each use. Henna is made from a flowering plant and dyes hair red or reddish brown. Whichever type of hair dye you choose, be sure to take heed with any warning labels including as "Caution" and "Warning" statements and follow the directions very conscientiously.

Hair dye has caused problems for some people including itchy or raw skin, swelling in the face, trouble breathing, hair loss, redness, and burning.

To get the maximum benefit from your hair dye in the safest way possible, there are a few guidelines you should follow. First, read the directions thoroughly and follow them as directed. A step out of order or missing a step entirely could be disastrous for your hair and scalp. Most hair dye manufacturers recommend doing a patch test before dyeing all of your hair. To do this, rub a dab of the dye on the inside of your elbow or behind your ear and leave it for two days. If you do not develop a reaction, you are most likely safe. If a rash appears, do not use the dye. You should do a patch test each time you color your hair. If you are having your hair dyed at a salon, request that your beautician do a patch test. Keep the hair dye away from your eyebrows and eyelashes. This can cause eye irritation and even blindness. Do not keep hair dye where children can get to it. Be sure to rinse your scalp thoroughly with water after dyeing your hair. Most kits supply gloves to wear when you apply the hair dye. Use them. It is a good idea not to mix different dyes. This can cause a train wreck for your hair and scalp.

www.fda.gov