FDA: Washable hair chalks may be bad for you

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expressed concern over the safety of washable hair chalks being used as hair dye.

In an advisory, it noted that hair chalking has become very popular, particularly among teenagers, who rub colored pastel chalk onto their hair to change its color.

“The FDA is concerned over the safety of washable hair chalks sold through the Internet,” it said.

According to the agency, these products may contain ingredients such as dyes or colorants, chemicals and preservatives that are not allowed and may cause allergies or adverse reactions on the scalp, head, eyes and skin.

The FDA said it has yet to receive any “notification in conformance” with the Asean Cosmetic Directive for Washable Hair Chalks from any cosmetic establishments.

“The public is hereby advised to use only products approved by FDA to ensure the safety and quality of cosmetic products,” it added.—Tina G. Santos