Just for Men hair dye has been linked to hundreds of adverse events, including burns and allergic reactions. Some Hispanic and African American men have also suffered skin discoloration.
Just for Men Chemical Burns
Consumer Affairs has received hundreds of complaints about Just for Men, including reports from men who experienced severe chemical burns. In one case, a serious reaction was reported by a man who had used Just for Men without problem for 10 years.
The manufacturer of Just for Men, Combe Inc., recommends always performing a skin-sensitivity test on the skin inside the bend of your elbow 48 hours before you use Just for Men. The label warns about the risk of severe reactions, including:
“Rapidly spreading skin rash, dizziness, faintness, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, tightness of chest, hives or swelling to eyes/face, blistering of skin or scalp weeping, seek immediate medical attention.”
Chemical Burn Information
Chemical burns occur when tissue is destroyed by exposure to corrosive or toxic substances. Most chemical burns cause pain or itching very soon after the skin is exposed. In some cases, reactions develop slowly over time due to workplace or environmental exposure.
Symptoms
- Pain or itching skin
- Blisters that are filled with blood or clear fluid
- Rapidly-spreading rash
- Hives (itchy, painful welts that spread when irritated)
- Swelling
- Skin feels warm to the touch
- And more
Treatment
Treatment for a chemical burn begins by removing the chemical from your skin without spreading it to uninjured areas, your hands, or your eyes. Flush the burned skin with cool water for 15 minutes to remove as much of the chemical as possible. Apply a cool, wet compress to help relieve pain. Wrap the skin in a sterile dressing (if possible) or a clean cloth. Do not allow clothing, friction, or pressure to cause further damage.
Outlook
Minor chemical burns usually heal on their own without needing further treatment. However, severe burns (2nd or 3rd-degree) are a medical emergency and need to be treated in a hospital. You may need to take anti-inflammatory medications or antibiotics to ward off infection. Severe burns can cause permanent scarring and disfigurement.