Further to the publication by the European Commission of its press release of 29 March 2007, concerning hair dyes and allergies, Colipa, the European Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association, would like to reinforce its confidence in the safety of hair dyes and its continued support of scientific initiatives that may lead to a better understanding of the causes of allergies.
It is well known that, as can be the case with other consumer products, some people may suffer an allergic reaction to some hair colouring products. Severe reactions are, however, extremely rare. Consumers are nevertheless clearly instructed to systematically carry out a sensitivity test 48 hours prior to the application of a hair colouring product. The cosmetics industry also actively engages with hairdressers to ensure that appropriate occupational safety measures are thoroughly adhered to.
Consumer safety is a top priority for the cosmetics industry. It is with the aim of strengthening consumer confidence that an overall process for the evaluation of hair colouring on the European market was established in 2003, based on an agreement between the European Commission, Member States, Industry and consumer Associations. As part of this process, the cosmetics industry submitted to the European Commission, in 2005, extensive scientific dossiers in support of the safety of hair dyes, including the 46 substances referred to today in the European Commission's press release and the SCCP memorandum.
It is important to note, that the classification in the memorandum is purely based on properties, which chemicals may have, if handled in their pure form (hazard). This classification as such gives no indication of the risk to human health such chemicals might pose, when used in consumer products under the appropriate conditions.
“Hair colouring products are one of the most thoroughly studied consumer products on the market today. The European cosmetics industry fully supports the European Commission's strategy to evaluate further the safety of hair dyes”, confirmed Bertil Heerink, Director General of Colipa.