Can I colour my hair before cataract surgery​?

Many people in Surrey look forward to cataract surgery because it helps them see more clearly again. But before the day of surgery, you may have questions about what you can and cannot do. One common question is: “Can I colour my hair before cataract surgery?”

It may seem like a small thing, but hair dye has strong smells and chemicals that can affect your eyes. You may also wonder how close to the surgery date it is still safe. In this blog, we explain what you need to know so you can prepare with confidence. We also look at the advice often shared by Professor Paul Ursell, a highly skilled cataract surgeon in Surrey.

Why people worry about hair dye before surgery

Hair dye has strong scents, liquids, and chemicals. When you colour your hair, these things can get close to your eyes. Even if your eyes are closed, fumes can still make them water or sting. This is not ideal when you are preparing for a medical procedure on your eyes.

Before cataract surgery, the eye needs to be calm, clean, and not irritated. If your eyes are red, sore, or watery, it may affect your comfort on the day of surgery. This is why people want to know if colouring their hair is allowed or safe.

Is it safe to colour your hair before cataract surgery?

For most people, yes, it is safe, but only if you do it early enough. Most experts, including Professor Paul Ursell, suggest that you should avoid colouring your hair too close to the surgery date. The main reason is to avoid the risk of irritation from chemicals or strong smells.

It is best to colour your hair at least a few days before surgery, or even better, a week before. This gives your eyes time to settle in case the dye fumes make them sore or watery.

If your eyes get irritated, they usually improve on their own. But if irritation happens the night before or on the day of surgery, it may cause stress or delay the procedure.

Why timing matters

Even though cataract surgery is quick and safe, it is still delicate. Your eye needs to be in the best possible condition. The eye drops you use before surgery help keep your eye clean and ready. If hair dye causes any irritation, it may work against this.

Colouring your hair a week before surgery gives your eyes time to settle. It also allows you to feel calm and clean on the day of your procedure.

Hair dye and eye safety: what to watch for

Hair dye does not touch your eyes directly, but there are still things to be careful about.

Strong fumes

Many hair dyes have a strong smell. Fumes can cause your eyes to water. While this is usually mild, it is not something you want right before surgery.

Splashes or drips

Sometimes dye can drip or splash, especially around your forehead, scalp, or hairline. If the dye gets in your eye, it can cause stinging, redness, or pain.

Allergic reactions

Some people react to hair dye. This can cause itching, redness, or swelling around the face. Even if you have dyed your hair many times before, reactions can still happen.

This is why doing your hair early gives you plenty of time to notice and handle any problems.

Tips for safe hair colouring before your surgery

If you want to colour your hair before surgery, here are simple ways to stay safe and protect your eyes:

1. Do it early

Try to colour your hair one week before surgery. This is the safest timing.

2. Avoid harsh products

Use gentle or ammonia-free dyes if possible. These have fewer fumes and may feel more comfortable.

3. Keep dye away from your eyes

Use a towel or barrier near your forehead. This prevents dye from running down toward your eyes.

4. Have someone help you

If someone else applies the dye, they can be more careful about keeping it away from your eyes.

5. Rinse well

Make sure all of the dye is washed out. Any leftover product near your scalp can still cause irritation.

6. Watch for any symptoms

If your eyes become red, itchy, or watery, tell Professor Paul Ursell before your procedure.

What if you already coloured your hair close to the surgery date?

If you coloured your hair the day before or very close to your surgery, do not panic. Most of the time, everything will still be fine. But check your eyes carefully:

• Are they red?
• Do they feel sore?
• Are they watering more than usual?
• Do you feel burning or irritation?

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to tell Professor Paul Ursell. He will let you know if it is still safe to proceed.

Hair colouring after cataract surgery

You might also wonder when it is safe to colour your hair after the surgery. Many people want fresh hair for events, photos, or simply to feel good.

After cataract surgery, your eye is more sensitive for a while. It may be at risk from fumes, splashes, or bending forward for long periods.

Most experts, including Professor Paul Ursell, advise waiting at least two weeks before colouring your hair again. Some people may need longer depending on how their eye heals.

The most important rule is this:
Avoid getting any product, water, or chemicals near your eyes while they heal.

Why clear vision helps you enjoy your life

Many people look forward to cataract surgery because it helps them see colours more brightly. After healing, even simple things like washing your hair or looking in the mirror may feel easier and clearer.

This is why it is important to protect your eyes before the procedure. The more prepared you are, the smoother your recovery will be.

Take the next step

If you want to learn more about cataracts or think you may need treatment, take our quick cataract suitability self-test. It helps you understand your symptoms and whether surgery might help you.