Is Splat Hair Dye Fabric Dye? Getting the Facts on This Viral Claim

Social media can spread information like wildfire, for better or worse. Recently, a concerning claim about a popular hair dye brand went viral – that Splat hair dye is actually just fabric dye. As the vivid colors gained popularity, some started questioning if it was even meant for hair in the first place.

This alarming declaration left many Splat users worried. Could it really be true? Was this vibrant dye never intended as a hair product?

In this thorough exploration, we’ll uncover the truth about Splat hair dye. Learn all about its origins, ingredients, and whether it really is just rebranded fabric dye.

The Origins of the Splat Hair Dye Controversy

First, let’s understand exactly where this fabric dye rumor started.

In mid-2021, some TikTok users started posting warnings not to use Splat. They declared it was actually clothing or furniture dye mislabeled for hair.

What evidence did they provide? Mainly just the long-lasting, extremely vibrant results the dye delivered. Some found it very difficult to remove from hair later on.

The vivid colors and stubborn staining seemed more expected of fabric dye than a hair product. As the videos gained views, the rumor spread rapidly.

But no concrete proof was offered that Splat originated as a textile dye. Just subjective observations on its intensity and tenacity.

Still, many saw these videos and took the claims at face value without further investigation. Understandably, those who recently dyed their hair with Splat became worried about what they’d just put on their heads.

Is Splat Actually Fabric Dye? Getting the Full Story

To get to the bottom of this, let’s go right to the source – Splat itself.

Splat is produced by the company Punky Colour. When asked directly if Splat is fabric dye, Punky Colour adamantly denied this claim.

They asserted Splat hair dye is absolutely intended and formulated solely for coloring hair.

Punky Colour states that the ingredients in Splat are chemically comparable to other hair dyes. They say it contains no industrial textile dyes or other fabric-specific chemicals.

Additionally, they report that Splat is vegan, paraben-free, and does not contain toxicPPD compounds found in many alternative dyes.

So according to the manufacturer, Splat hair color undergoes the same safety testing and approval process as other hair dye products. They insist it is absolutely not fabric dye in disguise.

Why Does Splat Hair Dye Last So Long and Apply So Vibrantly?

If it isn’t actually fabric dye, why does Splat hair color behave so differently from other brands?

Punky Colour explains that the Splat formula contains more pigment and less conditioning additives than typical hair dyes.

The higher pigment load allows it to deposit extremely concentrated, vivid color. But the lower conditioner content means it doesn’t readily wash out of hair.

This combination of high pigment and low dilutents is perfectly safe, but explains why Splat color lasts longer and looks more vivid than other semi-permanent options.

Splat uses the same dye chemicals approved for other hair colors. It merely tweaks the ratios for a longer-lasting, intensely pigmented result.

Is Splat Permanent or Semi-Permanent Hair Dye?

Since Splat hair color has tenacity similar to permanent dyes, but comes in fun fantasy colors, some incorrectly assume it must be permanent.

However, Splat is actually a semi-permanent hair dye. It lasts longer than typical semi-permanents, but still eventually washes out over 4-8 weeks.

Splat does not use harsh oxidative chemical reactions to permanently alter the natural pigment in your hair like permanent color does.

It deposits dye to coat the outside of your hair shafts rather than opening the cuticle to stain within. This means it will gradually fade with repeated shampooing as color washes away over time.

Is Splat Hair Dye Toxic or Safe? Potential Side Effects

Just because Splat isn’t literally rebranded fabric dye doesn’t necessarily make it completely safe. Many have concerns about potential damaging chemicals in the formula.

According to Punky Colour, Splat is free of the following harsh chemicals:

• Ammonia
• Peroxide
• Parabens
• PPD compounds
• Bleach
• Formaldehyde

However, Splat does contain some ingredients that may cause side effects for certain users:

• Fragrance chemicals – can irritate scalp or cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals

• Alcohol compounds – can dry out hair and cause damage over time

• Metallic salts – controversial compounds believed to increase hair damage when combined with lightening treatments

Proper patch testing before use is recommended to check for skin sensitivities. Always follow instructions carefully and limit re-application to avoid buildup.

Consider the condition of your hair before using Splat. Those with dry, brittle, or chemically-treated hair may want to avoid vivid semi-permanents which can accentuate existing damage.

Tips for Using Splat Hair Dye Safely

If you opt to use Splat, here are some tips to minimize risks:

• Conduct a patch test on your arm before each application

• Carefully follow all timing and ratio instructions

• Apply as sparingly as possible to just freshly washed hair

• Use a deep conditioning hair mask 1-2 times per week to maintain health

• Avoid overlapping applications until color has faded at least 80%

• Protect dyed hair from chlorine, salt water, and sun exposure

• Seek help removing color from a professional if needed

Following directions precisely and not overusing Splat dye can help prevent undesirable effects.

The Takeaway: Is Splat Hair Dye Fabric Dye or Hair Dye?

Based on current evidence from the manufacturer, Splat does not appear to be fabric dye. While concerns about its safety are valid, there’s no proof it’s anything other than semi-permanent hair color.

The misconceptions seem to stem from Splat’s unusually long-lasting, vibrant color results compared to competitors. However, this intense performance can be explained by high pigment concentrations, not a mislabeled fabric dye origin.

While users should be aware of potential risks like dryness and irritation, avoid overusing Splat, and patch test skin first, there’s no reason to believe this popular, creative dye brand is illegitimate or unsafe when used responsibly.

If you have any doubts, consult your hairstylist. But you can color your hair with confidence knowing Splat dye underwent the proper approvals for use on hair, not upholstery. Vibrant, expressive hair color is for all to safely enjoy.