Lead Acetate in Hair Dyes

The title of my project is A Quantitative Analysis of Lead Acetate in Progressive Hair Dyes. Hair dyes are separated into 3 basic categories: permanent, semi-permanent, and temporary. Temporary dyes can be washed out instantly. As of now, permanent hair dyes are the most popular. They are sub-divided into oxidation hair dyes and progressive hair dyes. The active ingredient for progressive hair dye products is lead acetate. In the U.S, the current regulation says that …

…acetate. Lead is mainly a threat to young children because they can suffer brain damage and other problems after ingesting even small amounts. However, the FDA allows these dyes to be made with lead acetate because studies found it unlikely to be absorbed through users' skin. The FDA does require warning labels to keep the dyes away from children and to wash hands thoroughly after using. (Because these dyes don't stain skin, gloves aren't recommended.)