How to treat scalp irritation from hair dye?

Author: Mr. Ari Klocko  |  Last update: Saturday, November 8, 2025

  1. wash your hair and scalp thoroughly with mild shampoo to remove any excess dye.
  2. try gently applying an emollient (moisturising treatment) such as petroleum jelly to the affected skin.

How to soothe irritated scalp from hair dye?

To soothe an irritated scalp from hair dye, rinse your scalp thoroughly with lukewarm water. Following this, apply a gentle, fragrance-free shampoo and rinse again. For further relief, use a hypoallergenic scalp treatment or aloe vera gel, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

How long does scalp irritation from hair dye last?

An allergic reaction to hair dye can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the severity of the reaction and how you treat it.

How do you treat an allergic reaction on your scalp?

Creams, lotions, shampoos or ointments that control inflammation. Your health care provider might prescribe a prescription-strength corticosteroid you apply to the scalp or other affected area. These include hydrocortisone, fluocinolone (Capex, Synalar), clobetasol (Clobex, Temovate) and desonide (Desowen, Desonate).

How do you calm an inflamed scalp?

Lavender Oil: It is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, which can aid with scalp inflammation. Lavender oil alleviates inflammation, decreases redness, and promotes a healthy scalp. Mix a few drops of lavender oil with a carrier oil and massage it into your scalp. Wait 15-20 minutes before rinsing.

Allergic to Hair Dye!

Does Benadryl help with hair dye allergy?

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

Does hair dye allergy go away on its own?

One of the most important points to remember is that allergy to hair dye typically doesn't cause any symptoms at all at first. In fact, it classically takes anywhere from 2-7 days following application of the hair dye before the rash even starts. And once it's there, it can take weeks and weeks before it goes away.

What does an allergic reaction look like on scalp?

Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Symptoms include pruritis, erythema, swelling, oozing, scales, hyperpigmentation and a rash. Severe cases may present blisters which dry and form a crust. Symptoms of a contact reaction tend to become apparent within 12 hours of secondary exposure peaking after three – four days.

Can hair dye cause scalp dermatitis?

It is a delayed type of hypersensitivity reaction that commonly affects the scalp and the vicinity of hair line and neck. Para-phenylenediamine (PPD), a synthetic aromatic amine is the most common allergen specifically implicated in hair dye contact dermatitis.

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.

How long does it take for an inflamed scalp to heal?

According to NCATS, inflamed follicles usually last 1 or 2 weeks and reappear every 1 or 2 months. Doctors can prescribe effective treatments to help manage folliculitis outbreaks.

How do you treat chemical irritation on the scalp?

If you have experienced a chemical scalp burn, immediately rinse the affected area with cold water. Be sure to wear gloves to protect the skin on your hands. Flush the skin with cold water for at least 10 minutes to cool the area and clear the chemical residue from your skin.

How do you clean an irritated scalp?

Regular washing of the scalp with a medicated shampoo may be all that is required to relieve itching scalp. The most common anti-dandruff shampoos contain one or more of: zinc pyrithione or zinc omadine. selenium sulphide.

Is there a scalp moisturizer?

However, there are dedicated scalp conditioners out there, formulated to hydrate both the scalp and hair (without leaving the latter feeling weighed down or greasy). Dr. Benham says using one of these every time you wash your hair is the easiest way to moisturize your scalp and effortless part of your regular routine.

How to treat hair dye allergy at home?

Topical Home Remedies For Hair Dye Allergies
  1. Honey. If you are experiencing contact dermatitis symptoms, you can use honey as a remedy. ...
  2. Aloe Vera. Aloe vera gel possesses wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties. ...
  3. Coconut Oil. ...
  4. Olive Oil. ...
  5. Tea Tree Oil. ...
  6. Sesame Oil.

How do you soothe an allergic reaction on your scalp?

Steroid creams or ointments.

These are applied to the skin to help soothe the rash. You might apply prescription topical steroids, such as clobetasol 0.05% or triamcinolone 0.1%. Talk with your health care provider about how many times a day to apply it and for how many weeks.

What does a bacterial infection of the scalp look like?

Bacteria trapped in the inflamed hair follicle can cause small pus-filled bumps called pustules to form. These red, oozing pustules look like acne.

How long does it take for an allergic reaction to fully go away?

Your allergies will last as long as your allergen exposure. Once you're no longer around allergens, your symptoms should go away after a few hours. However, if you have inhalant allergies, your symptoms may last for several days or longer due to ongoing exposure to pets, dust mites and pollens.

How long does itchy scalp from hair dye last?

It can take a few days for your scalp to heal after you dye your hair. If you are still experiencing significant irritation after five to seven days, it's time to check in with your doctor. You could be allergic to your hair dye, or you could have gotten dermatitis on your scalp.

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 I use Benadryl on my scalp?

Will Benadryl help an itchy scalp? It depends. If the itching is related to an allergic reaction, Benadryl (a type of antihistamine) may help improve the symptoms. However, Benadryl won't really help itching caused by dandruff or psoriasis.

What cream is good for hair dye allergy?

What to do if you have a reaction
  • Relieving mild symptoms.
  • Steroid cream. If your skin is very red, sore and inflamed, you may need to try a steroid cream (topical corticosteroid). ...
  • Antihistamine medicines. Medicines called antihistamines can help reduce skin inflammation and itching.

Should I go to the ER for hair dye allergy?

"If you have a simple rash, and you're itching, you can probably go to urgent care. But if you have a rash and vomiting, you should go to the ER." An anaphylactic allergic reaction can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical treatment.

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