Always carry out a patch test before using a permanent or semi-permanent hair dye, even if you are using your regular brand. This usually involves dabbing a small amount of the dye solution behind your ear or on your inner elbow and leaving it to dry.
I usually do my patch tests on a pinch of hair about 1 inch wide, behind my ear, closer to behind the lobe (bottom). It's easy to apply to and see the result, and can be hidden if you don't like how it comes out. Never do a patch test on the hair that lays atop your head.
Good areas may include the inside of the arm or bend of the elbow. Apply the product to a quarter-sized patch of skin. A person should apply the product as thickly as they would when using it regularly. Leave the product on the patch of skin for as long as it would normally be on the skin.
Once the 48 hours is up, your *hair dye patch test reaction* results are ready. If you notice any itching, redness or swelling on the area where you've applied it, then you've experienced an abnormal reaction. If that happens, do not apply the product to your hair.
You may or may not be aware that it has been a legal requirement for all hairdressers to carry out patch tests prior to colour services. Reputable salons will never guarantee your appointment until that test has been done.
Your hair colour patch test result
If there is no reaction to the allergy alert test within 48 hours, the hairdresser can proceed with the colour service. If there is any redness, burning or itching, during or after 48 hours, you have to rinse immediately and should seek and follow medical advice.
But if you're looking to cover grey, go darker, brighter or richer, a herbal hair dye may be a very good option for you. There are many reasons why herbal hair colours are safer for those with allergies. Herbal hair dyes usually come in dry powder form which means they will be preservative free.
Tests should be applied to the upper back, because of the extensive area, facilitating the placement of various substances. Another area that can be used is the upper arms and possibly the upper thighs.
Can you shower after a hair dye patch test? The answer is yes, but with a few caveats. It is recommended that you wait at least 48 hours before washing the area where the patch test was applied. This allows enough time for any allergic reactions to occur and be properly identified.
Even if you don't see a reaction to the skin test, it's still possible to have a reaction when you dye your hair. One hair dye ingredient, p-phenylenediamine, or “PPD,” has been implicated more prominently in leading to allergic reactions.
A known irritant, PPD allergies have the potential to affect 1.5% of the population. In February, I was admitted to hospital after dying my hair.
Occasionally the arms or the thighs are also used for patch testing. Itching of the test areas is normal, but you are advised not to scratch. You should allow up to 2 hours for the first visit.
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. The type, amount, how long the dye was left in, and how thoroughly it was rinsed out can increase the severity and duration of the reaction.
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.
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).
1. Pop on a disposable glove and maybe an old t-shirt too, then dab a small amount of the dye solution behind your ear or on your inner elbow using a cotton bud or similar and allow it to dry. 2. If you are dyeing your hair, you need to do an allergy 48 hours beforehand.
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.
1 Before each use of this product, perform a skin allergy test 2 days (48 hours) in advance, following the directions on the right. The skin allergy test indicates whether you are prone to allergic reactions from hair colorant ingredients.
In the case of hair care products, you can apply the product to a small part of the scalp to patch test it. If it works, introduce the product in your routine twice or thrice a week and observe for any signs of irritation, skin allergies or rashes.