Hair dyes sold in Singapore do not contain excessive skin sensitisers that may trigger allergic reactions in people with sensitive skins, said a statement by the Consumers Association of Singapore (Case) today.
Earlier this year, Case commissioned a test on 20 hair dyes sold in Singapore. The test results showed that they are safe and do not exceed the safety limits set for the following skin sensitisers:
– p-Phenylenediamine (PPD)
– Toluene-2,5-diamine (PTD)
– m-Aminophenol (MAP)
– Resorcinol
Case purchased a total of 20 samples from a variety of hair dyes of different shades, brands and countries of manufacture, focussing on permanent hair dyes for home use. They were purchased from personal care chains, departmental stores and neighbourhood retail shops.
The samples were tested for their PPD, PTD, MAP and resorcinol content at CASE’s designated test laboratory.
These chemicals, which are found in dyes for home and salon use, are also skin sensitisers that may trigger allergic dermatitis, blisters and rashes on the scalp and face in individuals with sensitive skin, said the statement.
Such reactions may happen up to two days after the treatment. Skin sensitisers in hair dyes are also believed to have triggered fatal reactions in two cases in Britain in 2011 and 2012.
Read also: Korean man’s head balloons after dyeing hair in salon
Recommendations
Case advises consumers using hair dyes at home to follow the manufacturers’ usage directions carefully. Mixing the products correctly ensures that there are minimal residual skin sensitisers in the dye.
They can also minimise skin contact with the dyes by using protective gloves and applying Vaseline to their ears, hairline and neck before dying their hair, said the statement.
Consumers who develop skin problems after dying their hair should stop using them immediately and seek medical attention, while those who are unsure of their reaction to these chemicals may wish to seek medical advice in advance.
spanaech@sph.com.sg
