20 Chemicals in Your Salon That Require an SDS

Salon professionals handle hazardous chemicals every single day. Most don't give it a second thought. That "gentle" keratin treatment? It releases formaldehyde vapor. The professional-grade disinfectant soaking your combs? It contains quaternary ammonium compounds classified as corrosive.

OSHA requires a Safety Data Sheet for every hazardous chemical product in your workplace. Here are 20 chemicals commonly found in salons that absolutely need SDS documentation.

Common Salon Chemicals Requiring SDS Sheets

Chemicals in hair products range from mild irritants to serious health hazards. OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard requires employers to maintain current SDS documentation for any product containing hazardous ingredients — and that covers far more salon products than most owners expect. A single hair color brand might contain five or more chemicals from this list. Surprised? Most salon owners are when they actually sit down and count.

How to Organize SDS Sheets for These Chemicals

1. Group by product category — Color products, perms, disinfectants, nail products, and cleaning supplies
2. Download SDS from manufacturers — Most professional brands (Wella, Redken, Goldwell, OPI) provide SDS downloads on their pro websites (where to find SDS sheets)
3. Store in an accessible location — Every employee must be able to access the SDS within their work area during their shift
4. Update when products change — Switching color lines? You need new SDS sheets before the first application
5. Train staff on reading SDS — Section 4 (first aid) and Section 8 (PPE requirements) are the most critical for salon workers (how to read a Safety Data Sheet)

Which Products Surprise Salon Owners Most?

Shampoos, conditioners, and styling products often fly under the radar. Salon owners assume "retail" products don't count, but any product containing hazardous ingredients requires an SDS — even if customers can buy the same product at a drugstore. The difference is that you are an employer, and OSHA holds you responsible for every chemical your employees handle. For full OSHA salon requirements, see our compliance checklist. For broader OSHA industry compliance context, see our pillar guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an SDS for every brand of the same product?

Yes. Different brands have different formulations. Wella Koleston and Redken Shades EQ are both hair colors, but their chemical compositions differ. Each product from each manufacturer needs its own SDS.

What about products labeled "organic" or "natural"?

Don't let the marketing fool you. Labels like "organic" or "all-natural" don't exempt a product from SDS requirements. If the product contains any ingredient classified as hazardous under GHS criteria — even a natural essential oil like tea tree oil — it needs an SDS.

How many SDS sheets does a typical salon need?

A mid-sized salon carrying two color lines, one perm system, disinfectants, and basic cleaning supplies typically needs 30-60 SDS sheets. Full-service salons offering nails and skincare can easily exceed 80.