Hair Dye

Illegal in Garbage & Drains
Household Hazardous Waste

Drop-off is available twice a month by appointment only on Saturdays for household hazardous waste and/or universal waste. Acceptable items include over-the-counter and prescription medications, fluorescent light tubes, motor oil and used motor oil, antifreeze, paint, chemicals (pool and others), household cleaners, and pesticides. The majority of medications are accepted as household hazardous waste excluding controlled substances. Some items can be dropped off at the HHW Facility without an appointment and during hours of operation. These items include: sharps waste (syringes or lancets) properly packaged for safe disposal, (used) motor oil, filters and antifreeze. Proof of residency is required.

To make an appointment to drop off your household hazardous waste on the next available Saturday at the Waste Management HHW Facility at 2880 Industry Street, please call Waste Management’s Customer Service line at (760) 439-2824.

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.