It seems that youngsters are not that much inclined towards body piercing and tattoos. Rather, they are taking more interest in coloring their hair. Presently, the hottest trend among teens is coloring their hair in shocking colors like napalm orange, atomic pink, and electric blue.
Hair Dye Trends and Popularity
The global hair dye market is expanding rapidly. In 2022, the hair coloring market was valued at over $23 billion and is projected to continue growing in the coming years. This surge in popularity is driven by younger generations seeking ways to express themselves through bold and vibrant hair colors. However, with the rise in demand, there has also been a noticeable increase in cases of allergic reactions linked to hair dye usage.
Just Go Through an Expert’s Opinion
According to Vincent Crump of the Auckland Allergy Clinic, extended and continuous use of hair dyes, especially some of the permanent colors, increases the chances for a person to suffer a severe allergic reaction. “People need to be aware if you’re going to dye your hair, especially if it’s a permanent dye, you run that risk,” he said.
Permanent hair dyes often contain strong chemicals. These chemicals penetrate deep into the hair shaft to provide long-lasting color. However, repeated exposure to these chemicals over time can sensitize the skin. As a result, even people who have dyed their hair for years without issue may suddenly develop an allergic reaction. Studies show that 1-3% of individuals who regularly dye their hair may experience allergic symptoms after prolonged use.
Dr. Crump expressed his concern after a test was carried out on how a woman, Pam Douglas in Hamilton, had a very bad reaction caused by the hair dye she applied. This resulted in other women coming forward to support her and warn others about the troublesome effects.
Common Hair Dye Chemicals and Associated Allergic Reactions
| Chemical Name | Common Use in Hair Dye | Potential Allergic Reactions |
|---|---|---|
| Paraphenylenediamine (PPD) | Permanent hair dyes | Dermatitis, facial swelling, rashes, eruptions |
| Ammonia | Lightening hair color | Scalp irritation, respiratory issues |
| Resorcinol | Color developer | Skin irritation, hormonal disruption |
| Hydrogen Peroxide | Bleaching agent | Scalp burns, hair damage |
Allergic Reactions Caused by the Use of Hair Dye
There can be several kinds of reactions caused by hair dye allergy. Most commonly, the reaction appears on your face. We have listed the most common allergic reactions that are caused by hair dyes.
- Dermatitis or eczema on the face.
- Facial swelling.
- Bumps on the face.
- Eruptions.
Allergic reactions to hair dye can vary in severity. In mild cases, individuals may experience itching or irritation around the hairline and scalp. In more severe cases, the skin can blister and peel, leading to painful sores. A significant number of people also report experiencing respiratory symptoms, such as wheezing and shortness of breath, after using certain dyes. These symptoms should never be ignored, as they could indicate a life-threatening condition like anaphylaxis [Source].
Symptoms of Hair Dye Allergies
Below are some of the common symptoms of hair dye allergies. This will help in early detection and treatment.
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Dermatitis | Red, inflamed skin; may include itching or burning sensation |
| Facial Swelling | Puffiness around eyes, lips, or entire face |
| Rashes | Red, blotchy skin; may develop into blisters |
| Respiratory Issues | Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or coughing |
Preventive Measures for Hair Dye Allergies
Actionable steps to prevent allergic reactions. Make safer choices when using hair dyes.
| Preventive Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Patch Test | Apply a small amount of dye on the skin 48 hours before full application to check for reactions |
| Use of Gloves | Wear protective gloves during application to minimize skin contact |
| Following Manufacturer’s Instructions | Adhere strictly to recommended usage guidelines and exposure times |
| Choosing Hypoallergenic Products | Opt for hair dyes labeled as hypoallergenic or free from common allergens like PPD |
Some Important Information About Hair Dyes
Below are important facts related to commercial hair dyes.
- The culprit behind these reactions is a common chemical ingredient used in permanent hair dyes, called para-phenylenediamine (PPD). PPD is found in more than two-thirds of commercial dyes. The case is the same for many of the top-selling brands.
- Individuals with severe PPD reactions generally develop very painful rashes around their hairline or sometimes on their faces. These rashes often require treatment. Occasionally, it can be so severe that it leads to hospitalization. Facial swelling is also a common reaction.
- Currently, most of the hair dyes available on the market consist of para-phenylenediamine (PPD) and some other related agents. In the last century, allergic reactions to PPD were such a severe problem that it got banned from hair dyes in France, Germany, and Sweden.
- Current European Union legislation allows PPD to include up to 6% of the constituents of hair dyes in the consumer market. However, there are no satisfactory or widely accepted alternatives to these agents for use in permanent hair dyes.
The situation with PPD remains a concern for dermatologists and health professionals worldwide. While many countries have strict regulations on its use, others still permit high levels of PPD in hair products. This disparity in regulation means consumers must take personal precautions, especially when purchasing products online or from countries with less stringent safety standards.
Alternatives to Chemical Hair Dyes
For individuals concerned about the risks of allergic reactions, there are natural alternatives to consider. Plant-based dyes like henna and indigo provide a safer option for coloring hair. While they may not offer the same vibrant hues as chemical dyes, they are less likely to cause severe allergic reactions. Additionally, several new products on the market are free from PPD and other harsh chemicals, offering a middle ground for those looking to avoid allergens without sacrificing color intensity.
It’s important to remember that even “natural” products can cause reactions in some people. Always conduct a patch test before using any hair dye product, even if it claims to be free from allergens.
Preventing Hair Dye Allergy
First, you need to find out whether the chemicals in the hair dye can cause a reaction. To do this, the easiest way is a patch test. This will tell you if you are allergic to a particular dye.
Mix the different ingredients of the dye and apply a small drop behind the ear. This spot is sensitive and will reveal if something goes wrong. Check after 24 hours to see if the hair dye produces any reactions.
A 2019 study found that 76% of individuals who experienced hair dye allergies could have avoided severe reactions if they had performed a patch test beforehand. Despite this, many consumers skip this crucial step, leading to avoidable health problems.
You can also remind the hair colorist at your favorite salon when you go there. Allergic reactions to the dye include burning, swelling, uncomfortable itching, and redness. Hair care professionals advise against mixing different dyes, as this may affect your health.
Conclusion
Hair dyeing is a common practice among individuals of all ages. However, it is not without risks. Allergic reactions to hair dye are a real concern, especially due to ingredients like PPD. Following preventive measures, such as patch testing and opting for safer alternatives, can reduce the chances of experiencing severe side effects. As the demand for hair dyes continues to rise, it is crucial to remain informed about the potential dangers and take proactive steps to protect your health.
37 Comments
i have little lumps under my skin from hair dye for months!ive seen a dermatologist an she gave me cream its not working wat do a do?i stopped dying my hair
The hair dye allergy issue can be resolved
by manufactures including polyethylene caps
with the gloves they include. Caps blend with
complete coverage, softer results, less mess,
without skin reaction. They can be made for pennies.
I had a severe allergic reaction to hair dye. I have been to the ER, and to the Drs. twice. It has been a month since I’ve dyed my hair. I was on predisone for 3 weeks. I also have been taking benydrle, still to date. I am getting better, but it has been taking it’s time. I’m still pretty itchy. My head had gotten so burnt, for the next few days their was a terrible oozing. My head felt so tight. I don’t wish this on anyone.I guess I have to wait out the rest.My body is getting severe cramping, I think due to the allergy meds. It must be taking to much water out of my system. Good luck to anyone else that has had to indure this terrible allergy.
Polyethylene highlight caps
naturally blend beautifully
move from the solid color to
colorhighlights without risk!
Please be careful when using Nice and Easy hair clor. I had severe allergic reation to Natural Black (item 122). I still have bumps in my face and I had severe oozing from my face. I had to see dermatologist to get cure. Please be careful with permanent hair dye.
I have been getting my hair dyed at a salon for about 10 years, and about 4 months ago I got what I thought was a chemical burn at first, but it didn’t heal. Dumb me, got my hair dyed again 2 months later and I got the same reaction only much worse, my whole neck & behind my ears was raw, brokem out, itchy & sore. I finally went to the doctor & was diagnosed with a severe allergic reaction to the dye. I was prescribed prednisone & it went away but as soon as I stopped it came back (because I still have the color in), now I am trying to decide if I need my color strippe (which I probably do)and if I need to go back to the doctor.
I had been dyeing my hair for more than 10 years with the same Hair Dye, Clairol Semi-Permanent, when, about a month ago I had a terrible hair dye allergy. My forehead, the back of my ears and the back of my neck were covered with red patches and my head is feeling very tight as if someone was pulling my hair from the back. This allergy seems to have started the worse dandruff I’ve ever seen and everywhere I go I leave a trail of dandruff behind me which is so embarrassing. I was prescribed a shampoo which I am also allergic to and had to stop using it. I’m going back to the doctor next week. I am feeling so distressed about the whole thing, wondering whether it’s ever going to get better. Most of all, I worry about the tightness in my head, I feel as though I am being squeezed and pulled in all directions. I’ve never known anything like it and feel very sorry for anyone who has had to go through the same situation. Be very careful how you use these products.
I had my hair dyed at a salon, and then a couple of weeks later I put a rinse in to darken it a little. Some ten minutes later I developed a large rash on my chest and neck. Then within a further few minutes difficulty in breathing. My husband and I live on a property 45 minutes from town. We headed off but had only gone around 10 km when I had serious trouble breathing. Called 000 and met the ambulance some 15 minutes later…by which stage I was almost unconcsious.
Doctor said I had an anaphylactic reaction and my next one would be more serious. So now I must carry an epipen with me.
Be careful people.
Judy
I just had my first severe reaction 2 days ago to PPD. Mine was a bit different… My entire face, neck, chest and arms were tight, inflamed, and entirely bright red. It felt as if I had 1 million needles stabbing me, repeatedly, on those same spots. It had even gone down to my legs. No sores. Called 911, they gave me Benadryl via IV and was given more at the hospital. Prescribed 3 pills and an epi pen in case it comes back (as they can even after treatment) due to dye remaining in your hair; even after washing it numerous times. I had another, much more mild attack, this morning. This chemical needs to be banned!
My doctor thought that I had a breakout of a fungal type of acne and gave me minocycline. I actually worked. so for those of you taking allergy meds, maybe try the minocycline. I don’t promise anything, but as I said it worked for me (until I coloured my hair again, now I am back on it, but have learned my lesson). Good luck to you all.
I had a severe allergic reaction to PPD. Searching for solutions and demanding an awareness to this serious allergy:
Something needs to be done about the use of this chemical.
gogo
will having the colour stripped out of my hair get rid of the itchy rash on my scalp,neck and face? im pretty sure im allergic to the ppd in hair dye as ive had my hair dyed numerous times a few months back and my rash is getting worse.. will stripping the colour completley out get rid of this ? PLEASE REPLY!
Hello every one Please let me say that i am so deeply touch by these women and men who have compatible symptoms to my wife, except my wife has this big bump on her right upper part of her head and lots of itching for the fist 3 -4 months, its been 6 years now and the bump is still there, its hard for me to see her suffer, but i feel the same for all these people here that’s suffering too,
I would like to say my wife is native and don’t believe in the medical system as much and i am trying to find ways to stop her from using this product but she keeps on using it anyway, So i will take my tears anger and confusing with trying to understand her,her culture and the system which she believes in, being from the Philippians,
but the hardest part is seeing her not making a effort to go to a specialist or doctor to seek help and yet still keep on using the same product that’s simply crazy ….
I Went To the hairdresser and they didn’t do a patch test,
i didnt even know as this was the first time i have had my hair dyes..
I Already had a bit of eczema on my face befor the hair dye…
Minutes after the application was put on me, my head started burning really bad and i was finding it a bit of a struggle to breath,
I told the hairdresser and asked her if this was normal,
she had a sudden look of fright on her face which startled me a bit,
she took it off immediately and i started to calm down a bit..
Two days later my face started to swell and a oozing substance was exiting the scabs on my face.. My eye started closing up and i was getting worse every day..
I went to a & e and the perscribed me with allergy tablets and a steroid cream, but it thins the skin on your face..
I Then went to the doctor and he diagnosed me with face impitigo, but i know it was a reaction to the hair dye as it got worse after i had it on.. He gave me prednisone and Unguentum M (Ambiphillic Dermatological cream), this cream didn’t work i found in the morning when i work up my face was even worse from the night before..
I Then did some research and bought freederm intensive moisturising cream and it worked for about 3 days and now my face is still bad..
Please if anyone has had the same experiences, please tell me what worked for you?
thankyou
The Past 3 Times Ive Died My Hair I Have Come Out In Allergic Reaction, Itchy Scalp, Neck + Ears And Now My Face Is Burnt With The Hair Dye. Anyone No How This Might Be? And How i Get The Marks Away?
I have had highlights done in my hair for almost 12 years. About four years ago I changed hair stylists and he started putting three or more colors in my hair to soften and create a more natural look. About a week later I noticed a concentrated white spot that itched on the side of my head that was about the size of a dime. It drove me crazy but I kept thinking it would go away. It never did and eventually my whole scalp was itching,flaking and driving me nuts. After numerous doctor visits I went to a dermatologist. He said I had psoriasis and started treating with different remedies. I went through years of total misery including taking methotrexate which made me deathly ill and wiped out my immune system. About four weeks ago I had two swollen spots on the crown of my head appear and my whole scalp hurt horribly. The next day my lymph nodes at the base of my head were swollen and inflammed and I had a fever of 103.9 could not turn my neck and was very ill. I went to the doctor for the flu but didn’t have it so I was given anitbiotic for a viral infection. I could not get out of bed and could barely breathe and a rash started coming down my forehead as my eyes were swelling shut. The on call doctor gave me another antibiotic. Finally I went to the ER and they consulted a Specialist for Dermatology for an appointment the next morning. The Dermatologist recognised the symtoms and said this did not just happen and I had been acquiring an allergy over time to PPD from my hair dye. He gave me a cortisone shot, told me to take benedryl, use hydrocortisone 1% creme for the rash and throw away all antibotics. he always said to use only use Johnsons baby shampoo with a light over the counter conditioner. I was in bed for eight days,eyes swollen shut with yellow fluidy blisters the entire time. My eye doctor prescribed an eye drop to help get the histamines under control. I have never been through such a nightmare and I never want this to happen to anyone. Something needs to be done about this ingredient to warn the public.
I went to a nearby beauty school to do my hair. I asked them to dye my hair black to enhance my natural color. I specifically asked for a senior student but the supervisor told me I will get someone who is working in the color section. They did not do a patch test and the lady put the color on heavily. The supervisor told her it was too heavy but she started arguing that it wasn’t. It started to burn my scalp immediately but since this was my first time dyeing my hair with a permanent color I thought it was the same type of reaction a typical black person’s hair experiences when you do a chemical simiar to a perm. By the next morning, my head was so tight and I had scabs all over my head. I washed my hair twice so far in 2 days. I am about to do it again to hope for some relief. My face is swelling up bad and I have a few painful lumps growing on my neck under my ears. As I write this my vision is beginning to be impaired. I am heading to my doctor to see if she can prescribe anything. Are there any scalp vitamins that can help restore the chemical balance?
I recently put a permanet Dark & Lovely black dye on and my scalp started burning, getting lumps in he back of my ears and neck I talked to a salon and they told me to put Neosporin on my rash ad scalp and neck and it should help I dont know why they would sell this dye if it could kill someone they should be banned..I needed to vent..Thanks
Wow, I dye my hair every 4-6 weeks with Loreal,Never a problem. Today I used Nice N Easy and tonight my face has swelled up with red/perple splotches everywhere and burning like crazy.Oh and no health insurance.That will teach me for using a coupon! I’m beside myself. Stay away from Nice n Easy! 114 Lght ash brown.
I never had a problem with hair dye before…..needless to say, this time I truly had a terrible allergic reaction. Two to Three days after dyeing my hair with Bigen (Oriental Black), my eyes began to swell, itch and turn beet red. My scalp was oozing so bad that my hair became matted overnight.It itched and burned that I felt as if I was going crazy. Soon my whole body began to itch. I went to see an Allergy Specialist and he gave me a shot of predisone (which helped tremendously), I continued on predisone as well as antibiotics for a couple weeks. Still a bit itchy…..but feeling much better. This was VERY scary for me, I’ll never dye my hair again!
this is the 2nd time i have dyed my hair. this time i got it done at a salon and told her specificlly NOT to use synthetic dye.but i guess she did anyways and so now i have under my hair [the bottom layer] is dark brown. some streaks.on my forehead is a rash that looks like blemishes but worstens if i rub it the tiniest bit. my ears, and the back of my neck are very bumpy and inflamed.the bumps go to my shoulders.the spots itch alot. the first signs of the bumps came about an hour after. the first time i dyed it it took about 5 days. now there is some liquid coming out the back of my neck from the bumps around my hairline. its making my hair crustish.i also can not brush my hair throughly.
Well I have always dyed my hair for years..tryed a different highlighing product revlon highlighting, Well I guess i am allergic to this brand or whatever is in it. The next day after doing it..my face was swallon like a alien, eye black and blue, rash all over my face..now the swelling has moved to the rest of my body and I can barely walk at this point. I have been to 2 hospitals and they told me they dont know what to do and this is not an emergency..unbelievable, been to 8 doctors been on antibiotics, predisone for over a week, cortazone shots, benadryl with no relief..if anyone knows anything that does work please email me pokerchick1012@yahoo.com. Thanks for listening and I would like to warn all the women out there, this is not worth changing your color..This has never happened to me and i never thought it would..this is the first thing that i have ever been allergic to..Thanks again any help is deff wanted, please email me..thanks so much
Dawn
Long Island
My dad went and had his hair done Saturday, a few hours later he said his head was very painful and it felt like fluid was in his head when he moved around. Well that night his entire head, face ,neck was deformed. He went to e.r. and they gave him prescriptions , but now it Wednesday and it still really looks bad. Stop using black hair dye .
after reading your article,i believe i’m having a reaction to the hair dye.i used a diefferent brand..my scap burned when i put it on
didn’t pay much atention..now i have a rash all over by body..itches like crazy..family dr told me to go to the drematoligist..thinks it may be a food allergy..after reading this ..think its the hair dye.
please help can’t sleep ..itching is driving me nuts..plus the rash all over thank you for any help..
On October 22, I used Bigen on my hair. This time after 24 hours of use my head broke out in bumps and severe tighting of the scalp which caused a severe headache, neck and back aches. Within the next 24 hours my face and head began swelling causing discomfort. I went to the doctor he prescribed Benadryl and Aleve for pain. By 2am the next morning I woke up went to the restroom to discover my face disfigured to the point I woke my husband and we rushed to the emergency room. By the time I got to the Emergency room my face was swelling so my eyes were shutting from the swelling. I was diagnosed with severe allergic reaction to the product Bigen. I followed up the next day with my doctor so that he could see what happened in less than 24 hours. He said the prednisone and the sulfameth/trimmethoprm 800/160 tabs that the emergency room doctor prescribed would take down the swelling. In researching I believe the PPD or (para-phenylenediamine) causing severe allergic reactions in some people. I am still off from work due to the allergic reaction. I do not recommend this product to anyone because it transformed my face so much that I started looking like I was Japanese. Please, please,DO NOT USE.
do not use
Why are Doctors giving benidrill, when it is so usless on a real alergy? The thing that worked for myalergy is this novo-Hydroxyzin (25mg) or (50mg) depending on the severity of the anaphlaxis. When I react to a food or product alergy this is one of the only things that helps. Hydroxyzine HCL, dose to be administered by a Doctor only. Taking benidryl is like taking a placebo and is usless, in my opinion.
Have none of you read the warning on the box of any hair dye? It very clearly directs you to do a 24 hour test on a small portion of your skin to see if you have an allergy to the product.
The manufacturer puts these warnings on the box because so many people are very sensitive to the chemicals used to make hair dye/ bleaches. You people clearly did not follow the directions the maker of that product set forth to protect you.
I mean, people can argue that “Oh but Chuck and Couture got paid 6-figures for their fights” But you have to consider just HOW FEW fighters in the ufc get paid that much. Only a handfull, not even the champions of their lesser weight classes get paid 6 figures (maybe once or twice).
My scalp is so itchy and has bumps all over. I told the girl doing my color my scalp was very sensitive, so she used the semi permanent color. I had a reaction 10 years ago and hadn’t dyed it again, till 3 days ago, which I told her about. Dumb me for listenin’ to her. Now there are these soar swollen bumps at the base of my skull to boot. Taking Benydril. Hoping it goes away. They even put those chemicals in temporary color?? sheesh! Going to see a doctor today. Don’t trust hairdressers!
I have dyed my hair for 8+ yrs, and low and behold, i died it 2 nights ago, and woke up yesterday with a bizzare rash like burn. I used L’Oreal 100% color, and didnt do i skin test. I have never done one, and u ive dyed my hair at least 300 times, from red, black, brown, highlights etc… Luckily, its only one spot thats burnt, below my left eye and off to the side, on the bone. It’s itchy as hell 🙁
My reccomendation for everyone is use VASELINE along your scalp like to avoid the dye penetrating your skin! and dont smear the product, gently swipe it off.
Huge bummer, at any age!!
** scalp line***
Have none of you read the warning on the box of any hair dye? It very clearly directs you to do a 24 hour test on a small portion of your skin to see if you have wn allergy to the product.
The manufacturer puts thes3 warnings on the box because so many people are very sensitive to thw chemicals used to make hair dye/ bleaches. You people clearly did not follow the directions the maker of that product set forth to protect you.;
Yep! I did a relaxer and then dyed my hair, a few minutes after that. The next day I started to look kinda like Lester Holt. A day after that I had turned into an egg headed alien. I went to the doctor. He gave me an IV push of prednisone. I’m doing corticosteroids. The swelling has abated, I’m no longer egg-headed, but my eyes look like they’ve done a few rounds with Kimbel Slice.
To the people who keep claiming that there are warnings on the boxes:
SOME injured people DID do the test. Some tests don’t include enough waiting time for the reaction to develop.
MOST people are also under the impression that if they did the test once, and passed, that they are NOT allergic. Not necessarily so.
Finally, I have NEVER been offered or did a patch test at a salon. I also do not know anyone else who has. It is NOT normal practice for stylists to do patch tests EVERY TIME someone is getting their hair dyed. My reaction occurred after visiting my salon.
Here is a PPD bulletin board:
http://www.network54.com/Forum/603111/
I started dying my hair with a top brand product when I was about 33. I used the product for nearly six years before I had a reaction. The first time I had a reaction, although I skin tested, I didn’t wait long enough. I dyed my hair in the morning and by the evening I have a patch of hives where I tested. I just always contended with the itchy scalp as a normal reaction. The following month, I waited the entire time and ended up with a huge hot itchy swelling at the test site. Well needless to say that I didn’t continue to dye my hair. Fast forward to about three years ago, I wanted to color my hair for my 25th weeding anniversary – we went away to renew our vows. I worked with my hairdresser who I trust and we found a semi that I didn’t react to. Well all good things come to an end – I am now reacting again – very itchy scalp, bumps, and soreness in my scalp and it has been a week – the symptoms are going away but it is not worth it. It is just time to face that I am gray.