Local Side Effects Caused by Hair Dye Use in Females: Cross-sectional Survey

Abstract

Despite its association with a number of side effects, hair dye use is common worldwide. To explore the local side effects of hair dye use and to relate these effects to features of hair dyeing. A questionnaire about hair dye use was distributed to a random sample of 650 female patients at various outpatient clinics in 2008. A total of 567 females returned the questionnaire (87.2% response rate). Of these respondents, 82.6% (464 of 562) had used hair dye products in the past. The mean age at first use was 22.23 ± 7.05 years, and the median time between two consecutive dyes was 6 months. Of these respondents, 76.8% (354 of 461) used permanent dyes. Participants reported that they suffered skin redness caused by hair dyes (15.1%, 65 of 431), had scaling (14.4%, 60 of 417), or had itchiness (31.3%, 134 of 428). In addition, 74% (262 of 354) of the participants reported that they had issues with the texture or condition of hair following hair dye use; 77.7% (314 of 404) reported split ends, whereas 69.6% (273 of 392) reported hair dryness, 69.4% (256 of 369) lusterless hair, 77.2% (308 of 399) excessive hair loss, and 53.6% (210 of 392) excessive hair graying. Furthermore, 55.1% (196 of 356) of the participants reported a slowing of hair growth. The total number of hair dyeing events was associated with increased hair loss (p = .04) and excessive graying (p < .001) after controlling for all relevant variables. Hair dye is associated with local side effects to the skin and hair. Increased public awareness of these risks could help inform consumer choices and reduce excessive use.