HOMOEOPATHIC REMEDIES FOR HAIR DYE ALLERGIES

Millions of women and men use hair dye to enhance, update or change up their look. Most people tolerate hair dye without a problem, but it can cause a reaction in some users. These reactions, known as contact dermatitis, are due to various chemicals in different types of hair dye. Symptoms include scalp redness, flaking, itchiness, and burning or stinging. Contact dermatitis caused by hair dye can be due to direct chemical irritation of the scalp or an allergic reaction. Since irritant and allergic contact dermatitis frequently cause the same symptoms, medical testing is often needed to determine whether you have an allergy to hair dye.

Chemicals in Hair dye

Para-phenylenediamine (PPD) is a key ingredient found in the majority of permanent and semipermanent hair dyes. It's also the most common cause of an allergic reaction to hair coloring. There are PPD-free hair dyes, which frequently contain an alternative chemical called para-toluenediamine sulfate (PTDS). However, a significant number of people who are allergic to PPD also react to PTDS, according to a study published in the July-August 2011 issue of "Dermatitis." Other chemicals in hair dyes -- such as ammonia, peroxide, and various fragrances and pigments -- can also trigger scalp inflammation and itchiness due to either direct irritation or an allergic reaction.

If you use dye to color your hair, you might be among the 5 percent of people that develop an allergy to the product. ParaPhenyleneDiamine, or PPD, is found in most commercially produced hair dyes, as is peroxide. When the two react, the PPD becomes partially oxidized and colored; in this state, it can lead to an allergic reaction.

Symptoms --Symptoms of an allergic reactions to hair dye can develop within 1 to 48 hours of application. The following are the symptoms of hair dye allergy.

Dermatitis

This is the most common symptom of an allergic reaction to hair dye, and the risk of developing the condition rises with usage. Dermatitis involves inflammation of the skin. Sufferers will experience redness, itchy or swollen skin around the eyelids, ears, hair line, beard or neck. A person who develops a sensitivity to PPD will not experience symptoms until at least 10 days after her first usage. Subsequent exposures can produce a reaction in 6 to 72 hours.

Urticaria

Symptoms of this condition, also known as hives, can include red skin, eyelid swelling, red patches on the body, wheezing, sneezing, difficulty swallowing and vomiting. Symptoms can be seen about an hour after exposure to hair dye. Urticaria occurs when PPD triggers a series of chemical reactions that leads to the leaking of blood plasma into the skin

Anaphylactic Shock

This is the most serious potential symptom of a reaction. It is rare but can result in swelling in the face, shortness of breath, a drop in blood pressure and death, in that order. Someone suffering these symptoms should seek immediate medical assistance.

Patch Test

To determine if you are allergic to the PPD in hair dye, follow the instructions provided with the product. In general, you will be directed to apply a small sample of solution (dye and developer mixed together) behind your ear or to your inner elbow. Wait 48 to 72 hours to see if symptoms develop. If not, the product is considered safe to use.

Hair dye use and Pregnancy

When you use hair dye or other hair products, a small amount can penetrate your skin. Generally, however, the chemicals aren't thought to pose harm to a developing baby.

While a 2005 study suggested an association between the use of hair dye during pregnancy and the development of the childhood cancer neuroblastoma, other studies haven't reached the same conclusion. Most researchers say it's unlikely that maternal use of hair products before or during pregnancy would increase the risk of childhood tumors.

If you choose to dye your hair during pregnancy, consider these general safety precautions from the Food and Drug Administration:

·         Follow package directions carefully.

·         Wear gloves when applying hair dye.

·         Leave the dye on your hair no longer than directed.

·         Rinse your scalp thoroughly after using hair dye.

If you're concerned about the use of hair dye during pregnancy, consult your health care provider or consider postponing any chemical hair treatments.

HOMOEOPATHIC REMEDIES

SULPHUR 200-- Sulphur is the top remedy for hair dye  allergies with excessive itching and burning sensation. The skin usually remains dry and the patient gets relief from scratching it. The constitutional symptoms for selecting Homeopathic medicine Sulphur include an aversion to bathing, an unhealthy and dirty-looking skin, craving for sweets and utmost heat in the whole body.

APIS MELLIFICA 30-- Apis Mellifica is a very  effective  Homeopathic remedy for urticarial rashes with intense itching and burning-stinging sensations. There is swelling of skin as well of the face at times and cold application provides relief. Allergic rash with asthmatic symptoms are very well treated by  Apis Mellifica.

ARSENIC ALBUM  30- Arsenic alb. is another effective medicine for hair dye allergy. Arsenic alb is prescribed when itching, burning, swelling, oedema are present. The skin is dry, rough , scaly . Complaints are worse from cold and scratching. Restlessness is another leading symptom of Arsenic alb.The skin becomes black in colour.

 NATRUM MURIATICUM 30-Natrum mur is another top remedy for hair dye allergy. Dry eruptions , especially on margin of hair scalp. The skin becomes raw, red and inflamed. Crusty eruption is present.  Natrum mur. is prescribed when  excessive itching is present that mainly gets worse in warm room and better in open air. Craving for salt is usually noted in all the patients requiring Natrum Mur.

SEPIA 200-Sepia is prescribed when itching is present which is not relieved by scratching. Ring worm like eruptions on the scalp. Urticaria , which is worse in open air and better in warm room.

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