Why Does Your Scalp Itch After Hair Coloring? Here's What You Need to Know
Are you familiar with that annoying itchiness that can plague your scalp after a hair coloring session? It's almost as if you've been infested with a swarm of lice, right? Well, don't worry—At Style by Louis, a trusted hair salon in Shenton Way offering late-night appointments until 9:30 PM, I’m here to help you understand the causes—and solutions—for this discomfort. I'm here to shed some light on this issue and give you the lowdown on how to alleviate that pesky itch. Whether you opt for organic dyes or visit a salon, there's a scientific explanation behind this phenomenon, and I'll cover all the important details.
PPD and PTD: Culprits Behind the Itchiness
When it comes to hair dyes, whether they're boxed or applied at a salon, they contain a variety of chemicals that can potentially irritate your skin. Contrary to what many big brands and their marketing campaigns would have you believe, ammonia is not the sole culprit. In fact, both ammonia and ammonia-free products can cause itchiness. The real troublemakers here are two chemical substances: Paraphenylenediamine (PPD) and Paratoluenediamine (PTD).
PPD is commonly found in permanent hair color and various other dyes, often accompanied by PTD. While PTD may be milder than PPD, both can trigger allergies and lead to uncomfortable reactions. Hair color companies extensively use PPD because it provides long-lasting color. So, if you've been experiencing that pesky itch, these chemicals might be to blame.
Recognizing the Signs of PPD/PTD Allergic Reactions
It's important to be aware of the signs that could indicate an allergic reaction to PPD or PTD. These reactions typically manifest as irritation on the scalp, neck, forehead, eyelids, and ears. Your skin may become dry, red, swollen, and even develop blisters, accompanied by a stinging or burning sensation. In severe cases, a full-blown allergy to PPD or PTD can cause more intense symptoms, and in extreme situations, even lead to anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that involves a dramatic swelling of the eyes, mouth, and throat. It can also lead to difficulty breathing, dizziness, weakness, nausea, and stomach pain. It's worth noting that an allergic reaction to PPD or PTD might not occur immediately but can take several hours to manifest after contact.
Are Organic Dyes a Safer Alternative?
Now, you might be wondering if switching to organic dyes can spare you from these allergic reactions. Well, the answer is no. While organic dyes cater to consumers who are concerned about farming practices and the use of organic ingredients, the term "organic" itself does not guarantee that a dye is free from PPD, PTD, or any other chemicals. It simply means that the dye contains at least some organic ingredients.
What About "Natural" Dyes?
The term "natural" can be misleading when it comes to dyes. Dyes marketed as natural generally contain a higher concentration of natural ingredients in their formula, such as argan oil to condition the hair during coloring. However, it's important to note that the presence of natural ingredients does not imply the absence of PPD, PTD, ammonia, or peroxide. Surprisingly, even henna, often considered a natural dye, contains PPD. Read up more about henna here.
Understanding Ammonia-Free Dyes
Ammonia, PPD, and PTD are distinct ingredients with separate functions. Removing ammonia from a dye will not have any impact on preventing or alleviating a PPD or PTD allergy. Find out more about ammonia free dye here.
How to Prevent Scalp Irritation
Here are some easy tips to help prevent itching after coloring:
Skip Washing Before Coloring
Don’t wash your hair for 1–2 days before your appointment. The natural oils on your scalp can protect it from irritation.
Use a Scalp Protect Serum
At Style by Louis, I apply a special serum that helps shield your scalp from harsh chemicals during coloring.
Avoid Scratching
Scratching can damage your skin and make it more sensitive to hair dye. Try not to scratch if you feel itchy!
Rinse Thoroughly After Coloring
Make sure to rinse out all the dye completely after your color treatment. 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, here are some natural remedies that might help:
Aloe Vera Gel:
Make sure to use pure aloe vera gel extracted directly from the plant, not processed versions with added chemicals. Aloe vera possesses anti-inflammatory properties and aids in wound healing, effectively reducing redness and swelling associated with hair dye allergies. Apply it as an overnight mask on your scalp and hair, rinsing it off the next morning.
Coconut Oil:
Coconut oil is known for its soothing properties and is widely used to alleviate skin irritation. It possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help decrease inflammation, redness, and pain associated with hair dye allergies. Apply it liberally to your scalp and hair as a pre-shampoo treatment. Alternatively, you can also ingest 4 tablespoons of coconut oil daily for additional benefits.
Chamomile Tea:
Chamomile tea has both anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it an excellent choice for reducing inflammation, redness, and pain caused by an allergic reaction to PPD in hair dyes. Prepare a cup of chamomile tea, let it cool, and use the mixture as a final rinse for your itchy 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.
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Why Choose Style by Louis?
Located in the heart of CBD, Style by Louis is perfect for busy professionals needing late-night hair appointments until 9:30 PM. As an expert stylist, I prioritize your comfort and use high-quality products for the best results.
Ready for Your Next Appointment?
Don’t let an itchy scalp stop you from enjoying beautiful hair color! Book your next session at Style by Louis now online—your go-to late-night salon in Singapore’s CBD.
