4 Safety Checks Before Using Hair Dye at Home

Read the complete package instructions before scheduling a home hair-color session. Keep them beside the supplies.

Four checks before opening the product

1. Leave time for the skin test. The guidance describes applying a small amount inside the elbow or behind the ear and leaving it for two days. Test before every coloring session. Do not use the dye if a rash develops. Follow the package’s testing directions and warnings.¹

2. Keep the product within its intended use. Never use home hair dye on eyebrows or eyelashes. Eye injury and blindness can occur. A product meant for scalp hair is not permission to color the eye area.¹

3. Check your supplies and timer. Wear gloves, follow the stated application time and rinse the scalp thoroughly afterward. Do not leave the dye on longer to chase a stronger color.¹

4. Keep products separate. Do not mix different hair-dye products; this can damage hair and scalp. Keep the products out of children’s reach.¹

Pause when an instruction is unclear

Before starting, identify the testing directions, mixing instructions for that kit and maximum application time. Ask the manufacturer about anything missing or difficult to interpret.

Keep the box and ingredient list if you need to ask a health professional about a reaction. Write down which product you used and what happened, without repeating the application to see whether the same reaction occurs.

Hair, Everywhere lists a Hair Log and visit script. They can help organize product history and questions for an appointment. See the book.