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How young is too young to dye hair? Jessica Simpson 'mum-shamed' for seven year old's new look

Is it safe to dye your child's hair? (Posed by models) [Photo: Getty]
Is it safe to dye your child's hair? (Posed by models) [Photo: Getty]

Jessica Simpson has been called out by some of her social media followers after dyeing her daughter’s hair.

Yesterday the singer shared a post revealing her daughter Maxwell’s new look with her 4.7 million followers on Instagram.

The first image shows the seven-year-old’s newly dip-dyed locks while the second shows the child’s hair wrapped in foil.

READ MORE: Woman's head swells to incredible size after hair dye reaction

While some of Simpson’s followers praised her daughter’s transformation, others are claiming Maxwell is too young to have had her hair dyed.

“So young its [sic] a shame,” was one comment.

Another read: “Isn’t she too young to have her hair dyed?”

And a third: “Why start ruining her hair so young”.

Others have said it is her choice what she wants to do with her daughter’s hair: “Do people really have to mum shame! What jess does with her children is her business. It looks great!!” was one comment.

Some may argue it is a parent’s prerogative to make decisions for their children – an argument which is frequently made surrounding ear piercing at an early age.

But what do hairdressing experts say about the practice of dyeing your child’s hair?

Should children use hair dye?

According to hair dye manufacturers, no products should be used on children aged 16 and under. The European Commission is in agreement and wants a warning to be put on all hair dye packaging saying it is not for the use of under-16s.

The National Hairdressers Federation, the industry’s leading professional body, also makes clear its stance on the matter:

It tells members that hair colour products shouldn’t be applied to anyone under the age of 16.

READ MORE: The surprising foods on the 14 top allergens list

Damage to hair

The harsh chemicals in hair dye can cause damage to children’s hair – which is often a lot finer than adults.

“The chemicals are harsh and can damage hair," Dr. Margarita Lolis, a certified dermatologist, told Good Housekeeping.

This is due to chemicals such as: "Ammonia, hydrogen peroxide, and a chemical known as paraphenylenediamine that's commonly used in permanent hair dye”.

Reactions to hair dye

Using hair dye can also be associated with skin reactions (contact dermatitis), according to the NHS, and in some cases can cause asthma flare-ups.