Many of us regularly dye our hair, and you may have experienced an itchy scalp after applying certain dyes. Discover why this happens and how you can maintain fabulous color without damaging your hair or scalp.
Have you ever experienced an itchy scalp after dyeing your hair? Skin reactions to the chemicals in hair dyes are very common. Some contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the scalp, especially if it's already sensitive.
When the dye comes into contact with the scalp for any length of time, the chemicals can burn the surface, leaving you with an itchy rash.
How can you stop the itching?
Many stylists advise their clients to come to the salon without washing their hair. This way, some of the scalp's natural oils or sebum help form a protective layer between the dye ingredients and the skin. This strategy is helpful, but not foolproof.
If you experience irritation after dyeing, you need to allow your skin to heal properly. Avoid using products that contain harsh chemicals, as well as gels and sprays that could build up and break down into substances that can further irritate the scalp.
Also, and this is the hard part, don't scratch! It's very tempting to scratch to relieve the itch, but this will only irritate the scalp more.
Prevent itching from reoccurring
Before dyeing: If you know you are allergic to certain chemicals or specific hair dye brands, you can easily avoid developing a painful rash. Contact the manufacturer and ask about the chemicals in the dye and if there are any alternatives in case of allergies.
Be sure to do a patch test on a more hidden part of your body and wait at least 24 hours to see if there is any reaction.
Professional hair salons may have a wide range of brands and can work with you to find the most suitable one for your scalp.
After dyeing: Carefully rinse out all traces of the dye from both your hair and scalp.
Using a deep-cleansing shampoo here is a good idea, and don't worry about Head & Shoulders; it can be used perfectly fine with dyed hair.
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