Why some peopleare sensitive to hair dye

Some people are prone to a skin reaction called contact dermatitis .

This means their skin becomes inflamed (red, dryand irritated) when they come into contact with a particular substance.

The substance may either be an irritant, directly damaging the skin, or an allergen, triggering an allergic reaction that affects the skin.

Many permanent and some semi-permanent hair dyes contain a chemical called paraphenylenediamine (PPD), which is a known irritant and allergen. Thisis the culprit of mostreactions to hair dye.

Is PPD safe?

Hair dyes containing PPD are safe to use, providing safetyinstructions are followed. These products are strictly regulated and there's a maximum limit to the amount of PPD the product can contain.

If you ignore the safety instructions that come with the dye, you could put yourself at risk of a seriousreaction.

You're particularly at risk if youhave (or have previously had)a black hennatattoo. These temporary tattoos should be avoided because the paste often contains toxic levels of PPD, which can sensitise you to the chemical. This means your immune system has "remembered" the chemical and will launch a defence reaction the next time you're exposed to it.So,you could develop a life-threatening allergic reaction when you next use PPD hair dye.

Learn more about the dangers of black henna tattoos .

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018

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