Scalp psoriasis is a condition that affects the scalp, forehead, back of the neck, hairline, or the skin around a person’s ears. Many individuals with scalp psoriasis ponder whether chemical processes like dyeing their hair will exacerbate their symptoms. While there is a risk that hair dye can irritate a dry, flaking, or itchy scalp, not everyone with psoriasis experiences adverse effects after dyeing their hair. In some instances, the prospect of being unable to dye your hair again might be as distressing as the psoriasis itself. Ultimately, the decision to color your hair rests with you. Although some doctors advise against dyeing during a flare-up, this recommendation does not necessarily mean you can never safely color your hair. Here, we will examine what medical professionals say about the potential risks of hair dye for individuals with scalp psoriasis, as well as methods to dye your hair with minimal discomfort.
It is important to consult with your dermatologist before applying new chemicals or products to any area affected by psoriasis.
Is Hair Dye Safe for Individuals With Scalp Psoriasis?
There are varying perspectives on the safety of hair dye for individuals with scalp psoriasis. Some researchers assert that there is no evidence suggesting that hair color or other chemicals trigger psoriasis flares or worsen the condition. Conversely, others point out that certain ingredients in hair dyes and other hair products can irritate the scalp, leading to flares or allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with psoriasis. Ultimately, consulting with a dermatologist or another healthcare provider is crucial to determine which processes and hairstyles are safe for you, based on your specific psoriasis symptoms.
Experiences of MyPsoriasisTeam Members
Members of MyPsoriasisTeam have shared diverse experiences regarding hair dye and scalp psoriasis. One member commented, “Yes, you can dye your hair. … It will burn your scalp if your psoriasis is cracked, though.” Another member concurred, adding, “You can dye your hair. However, yes, it’s going to burn.” The burning sensation occurs because psoriasis causes tiny cracks in the skin. When hair dye is applied, some of its ingredients may penetrate these cracks, causing irritation.
Interestingly, some individuals found that dyeing their hair actually seemed to improve their scalp psoriasis. One member noted, “Me and my mum have both found that every time we dye our hair, our scalps seem to improve … especially if the product has peroxide in it. Although it seems to sting at first, it clears our scalp almost immediately.” Another member shared a similar experience with a caveat: “Hair dye works for me, too, but after a while, it begins to itch again!”
Minimizing the Risk of Scalp Psoriasis Flares When Dyeing Hair
While it is impossible to guarantee that dyeing your hair will not trigger your scalp psoriasis, several tips can help minimize the chances of causing a flare-up.
1. Consult Your Hairdresser
Seek out a hairdresser experienced in dealing with scalp psoriasis. Such professionals can often be found through word-of-mouth recommendations or online searches. These professionals understand how to care for your hair and scalp in a manner that is less likely to cause issues. Once you find a stylist you trust, discuss your scalp psoriasis with them. They may inquire about past triggers for your skin condition and assist you in selecting gentle products that will not aggravate your symptoms.
2. Postpone Dyeing During Flares
It is advisable to postpone hair treatments such as dyeing, bleaching, or chemical relaxers until flare-ups have subsided. The chemicals used in these treatments can potentially worsen psoriasis and irritate existing lesions. If you are experiencing a scalp psoriasis flare-up, it may be prudent to cancel your hair appointment and wait until your condition improves. Prioritize treating your psoriasis, and then proceed with coloring your hair confidently. If you are managing a scalp psoriasis flare, consult your dermatologist about prescription medications that can help clear your scalp. Oral, injectable, and topical treatments can be effective options.
3. Utilize Hair Products Designed for Scalp Psoriasis
A variety of hair care products are formulated for individuals managing scalp psoriasis or scalp sensitivities. These include over-the-counter and medicated shampoos and conditioners, as well as other moisturizing products, ointments, and topical treatments to help address an itchy scalp. Shampoos containing coal tar or salicylic acid can aid in reducing scaling and inflammation. Using these products can help manage your symptoms and promote a healthier scalp before coloring your hair. If your hairdresser or stylist is amenable, consider bringing your own products to the salon. Your stylist can use your products as much as possible to avoid introducing chemicals that might trigger a psoriasis flare.
4. Perform a Patch Test
Most hair dye instructions recommend performing a patch test prior to use. This involves dyeing a small section of your hair and observing for any reaction or flare-up of your psoriasis. Although this test requires extra time, it can prevent significant itching and discomfort later on. It is also beneficial to consult your dermatologist, who may conduct a patch test with other chemicals found in hair dyes to help identify safe options for your scalp.
5. Protect the Skin Near Your Scalp
In many situations, hair dye will inevitably come into contact with the scalp, particularly during all-over coloring processes like full-head highlights or dyeing. To protect your scalp, apply conditioner or petroleum jelly to your ears, hairline, and neck before coloring. This barrier prevents direct contact of hair dye with the skin, which can limit the extent of a potential flare and minimize its visibility if it occurs.
6. Explore Natural Hair Dyes
Some individuals advocate for natural hair dyes formulated for those with sensitivities. Several members have expressed support for natural dyes, with one member advising, “My advice to you is try to find a hair dye that is as natural as possible. That will help.” Another member found success with henna, stating, “I stopped using chemical hair dye years ago because I found henna dye. It is all natural and does not burn, even when the scales are horrible.” While natural hair dyes may not be universally effective and some could still trigger flares or allergic reactions depending on their ingredients, they are worth considering if you have experienced flares with other products.
7. Try Different Dyeing Styles
Even individuals without scalp psoriasis may find harsh processes like bleaching to be uncomfortable or irritating. If you experience discomfort or flares after full-head coloring or bleaching, discuss alternative coloring techniques with your stylist. Methods such as balayage, which begin from the crown or mid-shaft of the hair, can potentially yield desirable results while reducing the risk of scalp irritation.
8. Consult Your Dermatologist
Before dyeing your hair, seek medical advice from your dermatologist on how to color your hair as safely as possible. They can recommend products that have been successful for others, help you find a stylist experienced with scalp psoriasis, or provide psoriasis treatments to help manage your symptoms before your salon appointment.
Understanding Hair Dye Allergies and Irritation
If you have experienced scalp itching, redness, or swelling after coloring your hair, you may have a hair dye allergy. Certain chemicals in hair dye are known to cause contact dermatitis or more severe allergic reactions. These chemicals can be present in both at-home and salon hair dyes, and are more common in bleaching agents and high-lift colors, as well as in permanent and semi-permanent dyes. Repeated exposure to chemicals like Paraphenylenediamine (PPD) can increase sensitivity, potentially worsening mild past reactions.
PPD and PTD: The Primary Culprits
Paraphenylenediamine (PPD) and Paratoluenediamine (PTD) are the main chemical substances that can trigger allergies and lead to uncomfortable reactions. PPD is frequently found in permanent hair color and various other dyes, often alongside PTD. While PTD may be less potent than PPD, both can cause issues. Hair color companies extensively use PPD for its ability to provide long-lasting color. If you experience itching after coloring your hair, these chemicals are likely to blame.
Recognizing Allergic Reactions to PPD/PTD
It is crucial to be aware of the signs of an allergic reaction to PPD or PTD. These reactions typically manifest as irritation on the scalp, neck, forehead, eyelids, and ears. The skin may become dry, red, swollen, and may even develop blisters, accompanied by a stinging or burning sensation. In more severe cases, a full-blown allergy to PPD or PTD can lead to more intense symptoms, and in extreme situations, even anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction characterized by dramatic swelling of the eyes, mouth, and throat, difficulty breathing, dizziness, weakness, nausea, and stomach pain. It is important to note that an allergic reaction to PPD or PTD may not occur immediately but can take several hours to manifest after contact.
Are Organic and Natural Dyes Safer?
The terms "organic" and "natural" in hair dyes can be misleading. While organic dyes contain some organic ingredients, they are not necessarily free from PPD, PTD, or other potentially irritating chemicals. Similarly, "natural" dyes may contain a higher concentration of natural ingredients, but they can still include PPD, PTD, ammonia, or peroxide. Even henna, often perceived as natural, can contain PPD.
Understanding Ammonia-Free Dyes
Ammonia, PPD, and PTD are distinct ingredients with separate functions. The absence of ammonia in a dye does not prevent or alleviate a PPD or PTD allergy.
How to Prevent Scalp Irritation
To help prevent itching after coloring your hair, consider the following tips:
- Skip Washing Before Coloring: Avoid washing your hair for 1-2 days before your appointment. The natural oils on your scalp can offer protection against irritation.
- Use a Scalp Protect Serum: Applying a specialized serum can help shield your scalp from harsh chemicals during the coloring process.
- Avoid Scratching: Scratching can damage your skin and increase its sensitivity to hair dye. Try not to scratch if you feel itchy.
- Rinse Thoroughly After Coloring: Ensure all dye is completely rinsed out after your color treatment, as leftover dye can continue to irritate your scalp.
- Choose pH-Balanced Shampoos: After coloring, use shampoos designed for colored hair to help restore your scalp’s natural balance.
Home Remedies for Relief
If you do experience irritation, several natural remedies may offer relief:
- Aloe Vera Gel: Use pure aloe vera gel directly from the plant. Its anti-inflammatory properties and wound-healing capabilities can reduce redness and swelling. Apply it as an overnight mask and rinse in the morning.
- Coconut Oil: Known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, coconut oil can alleviate skin irritation, redness, and pain. Apply it as a pre-shampoo treatment or ingest it daily.
- Chamomile Tea: With anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, chamomile tea can reduce inflammation, redness, and pain. Use cooled chamomile tea as a final rinse for your scalp and hair after shampooing.
- Rosemary Essential Oil: Adding a few drops of rosemary essential oil to your shampoo can soothe irritation and promote scalp health.
Common skin reactions to hair dye include stinging and burning, an itchy rash, dryness, tightness, soreness, and blisters. If symptoms persist, a general practitioner may prescribe a moisturizing cream, ointment, or soap (emollient), a steroid cream or tablets for inflammation, or an antihistamine tablet or cream to reduce inflammation and itching. If you have had a reaction to hair dye, a doctor might refer you for a patch test. It's important to be aware that skin creams or ointments can dry onto clothing and bedding, increasing fire risk.
Many permanent and some semi-permanent hair dyes contain PPD (paraphenylenediamine), known to irritate skin or cause allergic reactions. Individuals with a history of black henna tattoos may be at higher risk due to the high levels of PPD in the tattoo paste. Some stylists have observed clients experiencing scalp irritation and hair loss after dyeing, even with preventative measures like scalp barriers. While Vaseline was once effective, it may not be as reliable for some clients now.
To optimize scalp protection, consider oil-based formulas. Some advanced formulas include ingredients like the Glycyrrhetinic Acid complex, which offers steroid-like benefits without side effects. Using a gentle shampoo is key to maintaining vibrant color and alleviating scalp irritation. Thoroughly cleansing the scalp 2-3 weeks after coloring can help eliminate any lingering dye residue.
If scalp irritation occurs after hair dyeing, seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or do not improve with home or salon treatments. Dermatologists specialize in treating skin, hair, and nails and can help diagnose and manage these conditions. You can search for a dermatologist by location, condition, and procedure.