Hair Dye Allergies

Allergies to hair dye are a common problem as about 5% of users develop a form of contact dermatitis and many hair dressers develop hand dermatitis. Dermatitis is immunologic skin reaction causing redness and itching generally on the scalp. One of the main causes of this a substance called PPD (4-Para Phenylene Diamine, C6H8N2) which is used in over two thirds of all permanent hair dyes.

Hair dye usually comes in two bottles, one is a PPD-based dye which is non-oxidised and colourless, and the other is usually hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) which is a developer. In the hair dying process the H2O2 is used first to break down the natural hair pigment: melanin. Then the PPD-based dye is added to replace the melanin. PPD reacts with the H2O2 becoming oxidised and coloured. It is in this form that PPD can cause allergies; fully oxidised PPD does not cause allergies. There are different types of allergies that you can develop:

• Contact Dermatitis: where PPD molecules are destroyed by macrophages and cytotoxic T-lymphocytes which are both types of white blood which are cells of the immune system. These appear as granulomas which are ball-like collections of immune cells trying to destroy foreign substances. The skin becomes red, forming a rash that is itchy and has a burning sensation.
• Contact Urticaria: This can develop in minutes to an hour after exposure. In this case PPD induces massive production of the antibody IgE which leads to swelling or oedema and skin redness.
• In extremely rare cases anaphylactic shock can develop as an allergic reaction. The face swells, you gasp for air and there is a fall in blood pressure, this condition is life threatening.

In order to determine whether you are affected by an allergen (the substance that causes an allergic reaction) a sensitivity test can be carried out. This involves applying a 20 cent-sized spot of solution behind the ear or in the crook of the elbow and leaving it for 48-72 hours. If there isn’t a rash or irritation then the test is negative and the product can be considered safe to use. If a rash of a certain size develops then the test is positive and you should not use that product. A patch test should be performed every time you have your hair dyed because the risk of developing sensitivity increases with frequency. This involves applying a solution of 2%PPD in petrolatum to the upper back and checking after 48 hours to see if it is positive.

These allergic reactions can be treated and controlled. If the case is acute and severe then thorough washing of your hair with a mild shampoo is essential. 2% H2O2 or compresses of potassium permanganate in a 1:5000 dilution can be applied to oxidise PPD. Alternatively a wet dressing of olive oil or lime can be used to soften the crust.

Alternative names for, and related substances to PPD include:

• PPDA
• Orsina
• Rodola
• Ursola
• Azo groups: R-N=N-R (where R can be any group) found in temporary hair dyes

While other potential allergens contained in hair dyes include:

• 6-hydroxyindole
• Isatin
• p-Methyl aminophenol

Unfortunately, at the moment there are no permanent hair dyes which are safe to use if you are allergic to PPD.

If you have suffered an allergic reaction to a hair dye and a patch test was not performed at the salon before the procedure was undertaken then you may have a claim for compensation towards any extra medical or hair treatments that you required to help rectify the situation.

To receive advice and help for your situation call Free phone 0800 652 4321 or 01642 25 28 28. Alternatively, visit the compensation claim website and complete the online claim form. Macks Solicitors will be happy to give you free expert advice on making a compensation claim for the extra expenses and for your emotional and physical injuries. Making a claim through Macks Solicitors will not cost you anything and you will get to keep 100% of any compensation you are awarded.