Hair Dye with Synthetic Melanin (IMAGE) Northwestern University Caption Using synthetic melanin, scientists have developed a gentler dye that can turn hair any color and lasts at least 18 washes. Credit Northwestern University Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.