‘I wouldn’t recommend’: Hair expert’s opinion after influencer bleaches child’s hair

Byron Bay influencer Ruby Tuesday Mathews has angered parents and experts after dyeing her nine-year-old son’s hair peroxide blond. Would you do the same? Take our poll.

Byron Bay influencer Ruby Tuesday Mathews has sparked controversy among parents and experts after dyeing her nine-year-old son’s hair peroxide blond.

The 31-year-old posted an image to social media of her son Rocket’s new bright blond hairdo, accompanied by a caption addressing the concerns of some followers.

Responding to critics on Instagram, Matthews wrote: “A few concerned messages say he’s too young for this. I personally think he’s too young to own an Ipad or a phone. I’d rather my kids express themselves creatively and feel safe asking me to help them do it.”

She continued: “Hair is just hair – it grows, it changes, and for some, it’s part of who they are. Bold cuts, bright colours, or nothing at all – it’s all good.”

Byron Bay influencer Ruby Tuesday Matthews is under fire from parents and hair experts.

Matthews bleached her seven-year-old son Rocket’s hair blond.

Director of hair salon Shag Hair, Grace Kelly, is among those who disagree with Matthews decision to dye her young child’s hair.

“I wouldn’t recommend bleaching kids’ hair,” Kelly told Confidential.

“It’s much more delicate than an adults. Bleaching involves strong chemicals, which can cause scalp irritation, allergic reactions and even burns. Their hair is also finer and more fragile, meaning it’s more likely to be damaged.”

Also a mother, Kelly said she would never bleach her own children’s hair.

Ruby Tuesday Matthews and Shannan Dodzy. Photo: Katie Fergus

“I would look into other alternatives, like good old lemon juice and sunshine,” she said.

Matthews, who is no stranger to public scrutiny, is a mother of three and shares sons Rocket, and Mars, 7, with ex-partner Ryan Heywood. She is also mum to daughter Holiday, 2, with fiance Shannan Dodd.

Other parents were quick to defend the influencer, who also founded Prene Bags, in the comments of her post.

“It’s nobody else’s business but unfortunately some think it is. He looks very cool,” a user wrote.

Another said, “I agree 100 per cent with you. People will complain about literally anything. You do you boo.”