Hair color can transform a look in minutes, but according to Dr. Pompa, your favorite salon treatment may come with hidden risks. “It is very toxic,” he warns, explaining that both salon professionals and anyone applying hair dye at home are at risk of exposure to harmful chemicals.
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Scalp Absorption & Inhalation Risks
Dr. Pompa emphasizes that anything absorbed through the scalp or inhaled can pose serious health concerns. “People that work in hair salons that are exposed to this stuff daily are at the greatest risk. But so is anybody using it on their scalp,” he says. He advises avoiding direct contact with the scalp whenever possible and ensuring treatments are done in a well-ventilated area. Chemicals in hair dyes, including ammonia, are not just irritating—they’re linked to endocrine disruption and even birth defects.
Coal Tar-Based Ingredients
Another alarming ingredient? Coal tar, a petroleum-derived chemical used in many hair dyes to achieve color. “The colors come from coal tar. That’s petroleum chemical, and those are so causing. We have to avoid them,” Dr. Pompa explains. Beyond its toxicity, coal tar has been associated with long-term health concerns, making it a hidden danger in seemingly harmless salon treatments.
Safer Alternatives for Hair Coloring
Dr. Pompa suggests there are cleaner options for those who don’t want to give up hair color entirely. One brand he recommends is Radicchio’s Color, which is made without harsh chemicals. “It’s organic, they’re testing even for heavy metals, and people love it,” he says. Salon-goers can even bring it to their stylist to ensure a safer, chemical-conscious hair coloring experience.
Bottom Line
Hair dyes can do more than change your look—they can expose you to toxins through scalp absorption and inhalation, especially with repeated exposure in salons. Choosing products free from ammonia and coal tar, like organic alternatives, and maintaining good ventilation during coloring can significantly reduce risk. Beauty doesn’t have to come at the cost of your health—just be smart about what you’re putting on your hair.
