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Hair dye can cause an allergic reaction due to a sensitivity to the chemical PPD, with symptoms ranging from mild to life-threatening. A patch test can help prevent a reaction. Anaphylaxis can occur in rare cases and requires immediate medical attention.
A rare sensitivity to certain chemicals, especially a substance called p-phenylenediamine (PPD), can cause an allergic reaction to hair dye. Often, the allergic reaction is quite mild, producing signs such as burning, itching, and redness. In very rare cases, an allergy to hair dye can lead to a life-threatening condition known as anaphylaxis, which can be recognized by symptoms such as swelling of the throat and face, hives, rapid heartbeat, disorientation and skin discoloration . Those wishing to color their hair can avoid a hair dye allergy by always testing a product on a small area of skin.
Many medical experts believe that a sensitivity to the PPD compound, contained in many cosmetic dyes, is responsible for causing an allergic reaction to hair dye in a small number of individuals. For many of these individuals, this reaction produces unsightly but mild signs, such as itching, burning, and redness on and around the scalp. In many cases, the symptoms of a mild allergic reaction will subside within hours or days. Taking an over-the-counter antihistamine may provide symptom relief until the reaction is over.
In very rare cases, an allergic reaction to hair dye can cause an extremely serious condition called anaphylaxis. This condition occurs when the immune system senses the presence of an allergen and responds by releasing large amounts of a substance called histamine. Anaphylaxis can produce a number of signs, such as confusion, swollen face and eyes, closing of the throat, rapid heartbeat, hives and skin discoloration. If left untreated, anaphylaxis can quickly lead to death. Therefore, those showing signs of this condition should see a doctor as soon as possible.
It may be possible to prevent an allergic reaction to hair dye by doing a procedure commonly known as a patch test before applying the dye to your hair. When a patch test is done, a small amount of the dye is applied to a patch of skin in an inconspicuous area, such as the inside of the arm. The dye can stay on the skin for a day or two. If you experience no symptoms in the treated area, it is very likely that the dye will be applied to your hair without causing a reaction. Because a product’s formulation can change, health experts emphasize that a patch test should be performed every time an individual plans to use hair dye.
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