Hairs are an asset to an individual which improves the aesthetic appearance and gives a young beautiful look.
Scalp psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition where there is rapid multiplication of cells resulting in red, dry, scaly skin may prevent you from dyeing hairs. National Psoriasis Foundation says people with psoriasis can use hair dye but with precautions. Taking adequate measures during and after the application of hair dye can help you in preventing complications and worsening of scalp psoriasis.
Here are the 9 things you need to know before you dye hair with psoriasis
1. Ingredients present in the dye:
Certain dyes are constituted with ingredients to get dark (using paraphenylenediamine, or PPD) or light (using peroxide and bleaches) color. These ingredients are irritants and can instigate irritation on the skin. The individuals should look for natural alternatives to synthetic dyes and look for dyes that are free of chemicals. Precautions can help you in preventing irritation and flare-ups.
Try to opt for products which constitute natural ingredients, Henna is a plant-based pigment which produces a red or reddish-brown color. Don’t go for black henna which contains chemicals to darken your hair.
2. Patch Test
As a precautionary measure, it is always advisable to do a patch test before you apply it on hairs. Follow the instructions and leave the dye on the skin for a time as recommended on the pack. When possible wait for 24 hours to be assured about the safety of the product. If any rash appears cancel your plans to apply the same dye on the hair.
3. Stage of the disease:
Psoriasis is a condition that has continuous remission. You should make sure that the disease is not in an active state when applying hair dye, as it can aggravate skin irritation and inflammation. Some medications can help you in controlling psoriasis, consult your doctor and use the prescribed psoriasis medicines when planning to get the hairs dyed.
4. Minimize skin contact:
The best way to avoid irritation and flare-up is to avoid contact of chemicals to the skin. It is a good idea to apply petroleum jelly to the affected area. Try to apply the dye away from the affected scalp. Apply vaseline on the forehead, neck, ears and surrounding areas to avoid direct contact with the dye, this prevents chemical irritation to the skin.
5. Seek professional Stylist:
Check with your stylist whether you can bring your products to avoid allergies. Discuss with your stylist about known allergies and specific products that are known to you.
6. Gentle Handling:
People suffering from scalp psoriasis should gently handle the hair, use soft brushes, minimize friction and heat as it can worsen the situation. The use of cool or warm water is recommended as high temperatures may cause further inflammation.
7. Avoid Alcohol-Based Products:
Minimize the use of hair products that contain alcohol as it causes further drying of the skin.
8. Known Allergies:
The allergic reaction can be seen as an immediate red and swollen skin with burning or stinging sensations. If you have known allergies with certain chemicals be careful and check for the constituent while buying hair dye. Inform your hairstylist about your medical history and allergies. Dyes are composed of various chemicals hence a body’s reaction towards each chemical is difficult to predict.
9. Aftercare:
It is possible that medicines used for psoriasis can interact with the hair dye resulting in discoloration and sometimes allergies also! So aftercare is very important and always consult your doctor in such situations.
Psoriasis is a disease of the skin and not the hair; hence hair dyes when applied carefully to hair can prevent exacerbation of symptoms and damage.
Read – Can Hair Transplant Performed on Scalp Psoriasis Patients