A pair of crumpled grey gloves beside a small clear unlabeled glass bottle on stone

Hair toner, explained

What makers mean by toner, and the FDA steps for hair dye.

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What makers call toner

Makers use the word "toner" for some hair color products and for some toning shampoos. A toning shampoo is a shampoo. We do not say which kind any product is; read its label. The FDA steps below are for hair dye.

How the FDA treats hair dyes

The FDA says coal-tar hair dyes include permanent, semi-permanent, and temporary hair dyes. It says coal-tar hair dyes, "unlike color additives in general, do not need FDA approval," and that coal-tar hair dyes bearing the caution statement and "patch-test" instructions on the label are exempt from the adulteration provision.

The caution statement

The FDA quotes the statement the law sets out: "Caution - This product contains ingredients which may cause skin irritation on certain individuals and a preliminary test according to accompanying directions should first be made. This product must not be used for dyeing the eyelashes or eyebrows; to do so may cause blindness."

Patch test every time

For hair dye, the FDA says to "do a patch test on your skin every time before dyeing your hair." Its hair dye Q&A says to rub a tiny bit of the dye on the inside of your elbow or behind your ear, leave it there for two days, and not use the dye on your hair if you get a rash.

More FDA steps for dyes

The FDA says to follow all directions on the label and in the package, wear gloves, not leave the product on longer than the directions say, keep hair dyes away from your eyes, and "wait at least 14 days after bleaching, relaxing, or perming your hair before using dye."

Sources: FDA, Hair Dyes; FDA, Cosmetics Safety Q&A: Hair Dyes; FDA, Summary of Cosmetics Labeling Requirements.

FAQ

Can I tone my hair at home?

We do not give coloring steps. If you use a hair dye, the FDA says to follow the label directions and do a patch test every time.

Should a salon do a patch test?

The FDA hair dye Q&A says salons should also do the patch test before dyeing your hair.

General information, not medical advice. Follow the label. We suggest testing a new hair product on a small patch of skin first. Keep it out of your eyes, and stop use if irritation occurs. For hair dye, the FDA says to do a patch test every time and never to dye your eyebrows or eyelashes. See a doctor or dermatologist about scalp problems or hair loss.

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How to test a new hair product

Skin test per the AAD, dye per the FDA.

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