How can I reduce the side effects of hair dye?

Author: Prof. Jodie Wiegand  |  Last update: Sunday, July 27, 2025

If you think you're experiencing a reaction to hair dye but it's not an emergency, follow this advice:
  1. Relieving mild symptoms.
  2. Steroid cream. If your skin is very red, sore and inflamed, you may need to try a steroid cream (topical corticosteroid). ...
  3. Antihistamine medicines.

How do you treat side effects of hair dye?

The best way to treat hair dye allergy is to apply a prescription strength steroid like clobetasol propionate once a day in the morning and olive oil at night. Shampooing everyday will help reduce the amount of dye residue left, but the dye can take 4-6 weeks to leach out.

How long do hair dye side effects last?

If you have developed an allergic reaction to hair dye, it can be very uncomfortable. Most people develop a red, itchy rash. This can sometimes cause swelling or blisters and be painful. It varies from person to person, but reactions typically last anywhere from a few days to as long as eight weeks.

What is the least damaging way to color your hair?

The two most un-damaging ways to dye would be henna + indigo, or semi-permanent (deposit only) dye.

Which hair color is the least damaging?

9 Best Hair Colors Without Bleach to Minimize Damage
  • 01 of 09. Chocolate Brown. ...
  • 02 of 09. Beige Bronde. ...
  • 03 of 09. Toffee. ...
  • 04 of 09. Copper. ...
  • 05 of 09. Burgundy. ...
  • 06 of 09. Golden Light Brown. ...
  • 07 of 09. Chestnut Highlights. ...
  • 08 of 09. Caramel Blonde.

Doctor explains HAIR DYE ALLERGIC REACTION | Causes, symptoms & treatment

What is the most healthiest way to dye your hair?

"If you really want to reduce your exposure to harsh ingredients the safest way, color-depositing conditioners and masks are best," Patton said. These dyes don't require a developer, so they're relatively gentle.

What hair dye brands should I avoid?

What hair dye brands should I avoid? Brands that frequently use harmful chemicals include Clairol Nice'N Easy, Garnier Nutrisse, Revlon Colorsilk, and L'Oreal Preference. These products often contain ingredients like ammonia and PPD, which are associated with health risks.

Can hair recover from dye damage?

Remember, it's not the end if you have color-treated hair. You can make a comeback from color-treated damage if you incorporate protein, water-based products, deep conditioning, and steam treatments into your natural hair routine.

How can I cover my grey hair if I am allergic to hair dye?

Coffee. For those looking to go darker, cover greys, or add dimension. All you do is brew a strong coffee (espresso works well), let it cool, and then mix one cup with a bit of leave-in conditioner and 2 tablespoons of coffee grounds. Apply on clean hair and allow to sit for about an hour.

Does Benadryl help with hair dye reaction?

Yes, Benadryl can help with a hair dye allergy by reducing symptoms like itching, swelling, and redness.

What neutralizes allergic reaction?

If the symptoms are severe and you have epinephrine, use it as directed right away and call 911 for emergency medical help. If your child does not have an allergy action plan and has mild symptoms, give an antihistamine by mouth such as cetirizine (Zyrtec or a store brand).

Is barium peroxide safe for hair?

Barium is a known poisonous ingredient that is also an irritant to the eyes and skin. This action severely weakens and damages the hair cuticle.

How can I calm my hair dye allergy at home?

Home Remedies for Hair Dye Allergies

The good news is that there's a simple home remedy that can help to soothe the irritation: an over-the-counter corticosteroid cream. Just apply the cream to the affected area and you should start to see results within a day or two.

What are the ill effects of hair dye?

Chemical hair dyes can cause scalp irritation, redness, itching, and even severe allergic reactions in some people. Ingredients like paraphenylenediamine (PPD), a common component in permanent dyes, can trigger contact dermatitis.

What is the best hair dye if you are allergic?

Free from chemicals like ammonia, paraphenylenediamine, resorcinol, petrolatum, and allergens, it presents a gentle yet effective hair coloring solution.
  • Tocco Magico - FREELUX is a PPD-free hair color with the following features:
  • Goldwell Elumen.
  • L'Oréal Professional INOA.
  • Wella Koleston Perfect me+

How do I make my hair healthy again after dying it?

Deep Condition Before and After your Colour Treatment

That will help to repair any damage, infuse the hair shaft with moisture and help seal the cuticle. Following a colour treatment, a deep conditioner will help replenish dyed hair. Treat your hair once a week for longer lasting colour and healthier hair.

What is the safest hair dye on the market?

What Is the Best Natural Hair Dye?
  • Hally Color Cloud*
  • IROIRO Premium Natural Semi-Permanent Hair Color*
  • ARCTIC FOX's Vegan Semi-Permanent Dyes*
  • MANIC PANIC SuperNatural Hair Dyes*
  • Moroccanoil Color Depositing Mask*
  • Lime Crime Unicorn Semi-Permanent Hair*
  • Khadi Natural Hair Color*
  • Surya Brasil Henné Color*

How do I know if my hair is damaged from dye?

Take a strand of hair, hold at both ends and pull gently. If it snaps, it's most likely damaged, but if you release it and it doesn't bounce back to its original shape, this is a sign of dryness. The cuticles might not be damaged, but the hair is lacking moisture to maintain its elasticity.

What's the most damaging hair color?

Comparing Permanent, Semi-Permanent, and Demi-Permanent Hair Dyes. Permanent hair color has the greatest potential for hair damage due to the chemistry involved and should be done most cautiously.

How long do hair dye chemicals stay in your system after?

The scalp is one of the most absorbent parts of the body—it's like a sponge that sops up whatever you put on it. As hair dye sits on your scalp, chemicals are absorbed through your skin and into your bloodstream. Some of these chemical toxins are peed out, but some remain in the body for months, maybe longer.

How to neutralize PPD in hair dye?

Apply a 2% hydrogen peroxide solution or compresses of potassium permanganate in a 1:5000 dilution to completely oxidise the PPD. To soothe, soften the crust, and alleviate the tight feeling of the scalp, apply a wet dressing of cold olive oil and lime.

How to cover gray hair without dye?

How can I conceal grey hair?
  1. Root sprays. Light roots are easily concealed with root sprays until the next time the hair is washed. ...
  2. Hair mascara. Special hair mascaras for individual strands or light roots work similarly to root sprays. ...
  3. Toners. ...
  4. Highlights. ...
  5. Shampoos with colour effect.

Is salon dye healthier than box dye?

Unlike over-the-counter box dyes, salon dyes are designed to offer rich, long-lasting results while minimizing damage to your hair. As you think about making a change, consider that professional hair dyes are specifically formulated to provide rich, enduring color while nourishing your hair.

Which is worse for your hair, bleach or hair dye?

So there are many differences between dyeing and bleaching your hair. The effect, processing time and results are very different. But the biggest difference between dyeing and bleaching is that bleaching is much more damaging for your hair, so you need to know what you are doing.

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