If you're allergic to traditional hair dyes, there are alternatives available. These include plant-based dyes like henna, indigo, and beetroot. These natural dyes are generally less likely to cause an allergic reaction, but a patch test is still recommended before full application.
L'Oreal produce a permanent ammonia-free colour called INOA, and Schwarzkopf manufacture an organic range called Essensity and an ammonia-free range aimed at sensitive scalps called Senea, so these would be a good start.
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.
Try switching to a safer alternative, such as a non-permanent, PPD-free hair dye – but be aware that it's still possible to develop a reaction to this.
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).
A nonprescription oral antihistamine, such as loratadine (Alavert, Claritin, others), cetirizine (Zyrtec Allergy, others) or diphenhydramine (Benadryl Allergy, others), may help relieve itching. Consider whether you might prefer a type that doesn't cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about options. Apply cold.
Quercetin is considered one of the most powerful natural antihistamines. It's a plant flavonoid found in foods like apples, onions, and berries, and helps reduce allergy symptoms by stabilizing the cells that release histamine in the body.
PPD-Free hair dye is a type of hair color that does not contain the chemical compound Para-Phenylenediamine (PPD). PPD is an ingredient traditionally used in many hair dyes, particularly dark hair colors. It helps the color penetrate the hair shaft and become permanent.
Does Benadryl help with hair dye allergy? Yes, Benadryl can help with a hair dye allergy by reducing symptoms like itching, swelling, and redness.
Root sprays and root powders offer a quick and temporary way to cover up gray hairs: simply choose a shade that matches your natural color and apply to the roots. They're both great options for those moments when new gray growth just barely starts to appear or you need a quick fix between dye jobs.
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.
Some hair dyes contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the scalp, especially if it is already sensitive. When the dye sits on the scalp for any length of time, the chemicals can actually burn the surface, leaving you with an itchy rash.
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.
Vegetal Bio Hair Colour - Soft Black | 50g | Achieve Natural, Ammonia-Free Hair Color | PPD-Free, 100% Herbal Certified Organic for Men and Women | UV Protection and Luster Maintenance | Complete Kit.
If you've come into contact with an allergen, you should shower and change clothes right away. You can also use a saline solution to flush allergens out of the sinuses and clear the airways. Other options for managing allergies include taking medications and immunotherapy.
Wash your hair
Washing your hair at night can help reduce exposure to allergens. A daily shampoo or thorough rinse will send pollen down the drain.
Though semi-permanent hair color can still contain PPD, there are many on the market that are safe and void of PPD, like the L'Oréal Paris Colorista Semi-Permanent Hair Color. This ammonia- and peroxide-free option gradually fades after a handful of washes, but packs serious color impact.
Staying hydrated, maintaining electrolyte balance, and supporting liver and kidney function can help flush out histamines. Consuming anti-inflammatory foods and supplements like vitamin C may be helpful.