Hair Dye

Hazardous Waste

Hazardous Waste Collection 
Hair dye needs special handling to avoid toxic exposure for waste workers, the community, and the environment.

City Specific Disposal Options
Please check with your city page (residential or commercial) to confirm if additional options are available, such as home collection, drop-off locations, and/or events. (These options vary per city.)

Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Drop-Off
Your city or county may offer HHW drop-off sites and collection events.
– Los Angeles County: S.A.F.E. Collection Centers and events
– Riverside County
– San Bernardino County
– Ventura County 

Disposal Options For Businesses
Hazardous waste cannot be placed in your containers. Schedule a Special Waste Collection by emailing [email protected] or calling Athens’ Customer Service Department at 888-336-6100. Fees may apply.

Some HHW drop-off centers may allow drop off by small business generators (check links above).

sink drain

No Dye Down the Drain

Because most hair dye contains harmful chemicals like p-Phenylenediamine (PPD), it should not be dumped down the drain. In addition to contaminating our waterways, it can harm aquatic life and other wildlife.

No Chemicals? Garbage OK

If the hair dye does not contain chemicals like PPD, place it in the garbage.

Toxic Symbol

Hair Developer is Hazardous Waste

Dispose of your hair developer just like your chemical hair dye – as hazardous waste.

Recycle Box and Instructions

Place the paperboard packaging that the hair dye comes in, as well as any paper instructions in your recycling.

Ways to Reduce

Switch to a Natural, Nontoxic Dye

Opt for a natural, nontoxic dye as opposed to a synthetic chemical dye. It will be gentler on your hair and the environment.

Ways to Reuse

Non-Peroxide Hair Dye and Peroxide OK to Reuse

You can save and reuse leftover hair dye and/or peroxide if it’s not mixed together.

Give Away Unused Dye

If you have unwanted, unopened hair dye, give it away to someone who will use it. Sometimes women’s shelters and assisted living facilities accept donations of hair dye.