The Food and Drugs Act requires that cosmetics be safe under the intended condition of use. Health Canada's evaluation of current scientific data indicates there is no hazard associated with the proper use of hair dyes. Conditioners provide a thin coating to the outer surface of the hair strand which helps to retain moisture in the hair even after rinsing. Also, in cleansing the hair, some shampoos will leave the hair dull-looking, susceptible to tangles and static electricity. Some conditioners therefore, contain ingredients which will make the hair lustrous and manageable.
Conditioners can also protect the hair from damage that can arise from frequent use of permanents.
The Cosmetic Regulations under the Food and Drugs Act prohibit the use of coal tar dyes or coal tar dye intermediates, in products for use in the area of the eye. This prohibition applies to all eye make-up including eyebrow and eyelash colours. In addition, eye cosmetics must meet the same requirements as other cosmetics regarding safety and sanitary manufacturing. Health Canada has an ongoing monitoring program on bacterial contamination of cosmetics especially in eye products. Random samples at the wholesale and retail levels are examined to determine if products contain bacteria which could cause an infection.