What is Scalp Irritation Caused by Hair Dye?
Nowadays, using a hair dye is as common as washing one’s hair. People use hair dye not only to color grey hair but also to change the natural shade of their hair. While hair dye gives a good look to your hair, it contains chemicals, some of which might be irritating to the scalp and skin. Let us look at some reasons for an itchy scalp as well as how to prevent scalp irritation caused by hair dye.
Reasons for an itchy scalp
Allergy to chemicals in the dye: This condition is known as contact dermatitis. Some people have a sensitivity to the ingredients in the hair dye. This causes an itchy scalp. In addition to the scalp, a sensitive person might suffer redness and inflammation of the ears and neck areas too. If the reaction becomes severe, the eyes and eyelids may also itch and swell up. Some people could develop hives (itchy, red patches).
Intolerance to chemicals in the dye: This condition, also known as non-allergic contact dermatitis, is caused due to sensitivity to some dye ingredients. The usual culprit is PPD or paraphenylenediamine. It is usually found in dark-colored dyes. It is used to give a natural tint to the dye and make it last longer.
The main reaction is the dry scalp, which might become cracked or stretched. It can also cause a burning sensation of the scalp. Sometimes, switching to a different brand of hair dye might cause this type of reaction.
Remedies for scalp irritation caused by hair dye
Rinsing: If an allergic reaction has occurred, it is best to first wash the hair multiple times with clean water and mild shampoo. If the irritation persists, contact the doctor immediately.
Hydrogen peroxide: A 2% solution of hydrogen peroxide will oxidize the PPD present in the hair dye. Be careful not to overuse hydrogen peroxide. Discontinue the use if symptoms persist or worsen.
Antihistamines: You can use an over-the-counter antihistamine to relieve the itching if it is not very severe.
Steroid creams: In case of a strong allergic reaction, your doctor might prescribe steroid creams. These help to control the itching and reduce the inflammation.
Prevention of scalp irritation caused by hair dye
Olive oil: Take a few drops of olive oil on your fingertips. Apply as a pre-treatment on your hair before applying the hair dye. This will help to keep the scalp moist and prevent excessive drying out after the dye is applied.
Natural shampoo: Mix some fenugreek (methi) powder with aloe vera powder. Apply the paste all over the scalp and hair and wash with a mild shampoo. Do this pretreatment a day prior to applying the hair dye. This way, you can pre-condition the scalp and avoid an allergic reaction. You can also use reetha powder as a natural shampoo.
Hibiscus leaf conditioner: Make a paste of hibiscus leaves and mix in water. Use the frothy, slightly gooey water as a conditioner after rinsing off the hair dye. You can use hibiscus powder and mix it with water to get the same results.
Going a little bit further, let us explore some ways to avoid chemical hair dyes altogether. The best method is to use an all-natural hair dye.
Natural hair dye
Method: Mix 2 or 3 tablespoons of henna powder with some lime juice and curd to make a thick paste. Cover and leave it overnight to release the colour. Apply it all over the scalp and along the length of the hair and leave it on for 2 hours. Rinse with water. Make a paste of Indigo powder with lukewarm water. Let it stand for 15 minutes. Apply it to the henna-treated hair and rinse off with warm water.
Advantages of using natural hair dye: Henna-dyed hair has a brownish tinge. Your hair will get a black tint with this combination of henna and indigo powder, which will last longer than henna alone. This natural hair dye might be a bit messy to apply, but it will not cause any allergy. Some people might need coconut oil application and hair wash the day before applying henna to avoid a dry scalp. You can buy pure indigo powder at Mesmara’s online shop or at Nykaa.
We hope that these remedies can help you treat and prevent scalp irritation caused by hair dye. So friends, be bold and style your hair in different colours!