Does Hair Dye Cause Hair Loss?

Doc,

Confused about hair dye contributing to hair loss. Most reliable sources on the internet say no. Though others say yes. I checked your archives but still not clear on the answer. Obviously an outright allergic reaction would be a concern. I’m just talking regular use with otc products. I assume some chemicals are going to be absorbed by the scalp. But I don’t if that’s true or if it is what that means. I know you have transplant clients who dye their hair.

Thanks..

Short answer — no, hair dye does not cause hair loss when used properly.

If you use standard over-the-counter dyes, read the labels carefully. Most are generally safe and whatever risks there might be are listed in the insert packaging. Discounting that allergic reaction and chemical burn are possibilities, as long as the dye stays only on the hair and does not go into the root of the hair below the skin, the standard commercial dyes are considered safe and will not cause hair loss.