We all want to look unique, to be trendy, to geet noticed by people we like. Most of the time, we use our look to achieve this, whether it be buying new clothes, shoes, a handbag, haircut or even a new hair colour. Is it really necessary? For some, maybe it is. It’s important to remember we take care of ourself through this, though. Hair dye contains a lot of chemicals which can harm you, especially if you have an allergy. Allergic reactions can cause a lot of discomfort, so it’s important to know the causes, symptoms and treatments.
What is a Hair Dye Allergy?
Hair dye or hair coloring products may contain various ingredients and chemicals that irritate the skin or cause allergic reactions. Most cases of allergies can be traced back to the paraphenylenediamine, or PPD, a chemical also found in gasoline, printer ink and temporary tattoo ink. In boxed hair dye, paraphenylenediamine usually comes in its own bottle with an oxidizer. The paraphenylenediamine is usually mixed with peroxide in hair dye. The more you dye your hair, the more prone you are to getting a reaction. Other chemicals which can increase your risk are cobalt and glycerin thioglycolate.
Hair Dye Allergy: Signs and Symptoms
Allergic contact dermatitis is an allergic reaction. It is marked by inflamed, red skin which can spread across the scalp, ears, neck or beard. Not only that, your eyes can get itchy and swollen, too. Most contact dermatitis is classified as type 4 hyperactivity and it can take hours after exposure for the symptoms to appear. Other symptoms include:
- Rashes on the scalp
- Puffy face
- Red, flaking and itchy rashes on the face, neck, ears or eyelids
- Swollen feet, hands, lips or eyelids
- Welts
- Blisters
- Burning sensation in the neck and face
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Fainting
- Difficulty breathing
- Throat and tongue swelling
If you’ve recently dyed your hair and are experiencing any of these signs and symptoms, it’s likely you’re having an allergic reaction. It can last multiple weeks, but don’t worry. There are various treatments available to you.
Treatments for Hair Dye Allergies
Here are some of the best home remedies and treatments for a hair dye allergy:
- Oatmeal bath: this is beneficial in easing the soreness and pain caused by the allergic reaction.
- Sesame seed oil: this helps soothe the aggravated scalp. As a bonus, it also helps reverse any greying you may be experiencing.
- Apple cider vinegar: ACV contains strong anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial in soothing inflammation. However, it is not advisable to use this frequently, since it may dry out your hair.
- Witch hazel: the potent astringent properties of witch hazel may help cleanse and heal the areas.
- Coconut oil: this essential oil contains antibacterial properties and strong penetrative abilities. It can help heal the scalp and skin from the inside out.
- Aloe vera: aloe vera has been used in so many treatments to cleanse the area and soothe allergic reactions.
- Tea tree oil: the anti-fungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil help treat the allergic reaction caused by hair dye. It’s important to use it consistently to see the desired effect.
- Chamomile tea: the healing properties of chamomile tea makes it beneficial as a treatment for a hair dye allergy. Furthermore, it helps relieve itchy and inflamed skin.
- Baking soda: this ingredient helps relieve inflammation and itching, as well.
