Investigation of Amount of Heavy Metals in Hair Colorants Produced in Iran

The increasing use of synthetic hair dyes in Iran, the heavy metals present, side effects (skin sensitivities), and the risk of carcinogenicity have made researchers investigate these dyes. This study was carried out by randomly selecting five Iranian brands in the city of Tehran and comparing them with two foreign brands. It was determined the concentration of heavy metals (Lead, Arsenic, Nickel, Cadmium, and Chromium) in domestically produced hair dyes had been investigated. Heavy metal concentrations were measured by inductively coupled plasma spectrometry (ICP MASS) following acid digestion. The results showed that the concentration of heavy metals in 35 samples measured with three repetitions was less than 10 ppm and within the permissible limit.