What are the common symptoms of chemical burns on the scalp. How can you prevent scalp irritation from hair care products. What treatments are available for chemical-induced scalp damage. How do different hair chemicals affect scalp health.

The Nature and Causes of Scalp Irritation from Hair Care Chemicals

Scalp irritation, clinically known as dermatitis of the scalp, is a common issue that can arise from various sources, including chemical, physical, and biological agents. However, one of the most prevalent causes is the use of hair care chemicals. This article will delve deep into the world of chemical-induced scalp irritation, exploring its causes, symptoms, and potential treatments.

Scalp irritation can manifest in a range of severities, from mild discomfort to severe reactions. The symptoms may include:

• Erythema (redness of the skin)
• Blister formation
• Burning or tingling sensations
• Severe acute irritant dermatitis (also known as scalp burn)
• Cosmetic alopecia (hair loss due to cosmetic treatments)

It’s crucial to understand that while the desire for a specific hairstyle or color can lead to exposure to potentially irritating chemicals, proper knowledge and application can significantly reduce the risk of adverse reactions.

Types of Scalp Irritation: From Acute Burns to Cumulative Effects

Scalp irritation can be categorized into four primary clinical entities:

1. Acute (burn)
2. Sensory
3. Non-immunologic contact urticaria (NICU)
4. Cumulative

Each type of irritation has its unique characteristics and potential causes. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Acute Scalp Irritation: The Chemical Burn

Acute scalp irritation, often referred to as a chemical burn, is perhaps the most severe form of scalp damage caused by hair care products. Common culprits include hair relaxers and highlighting chemicals.

Hair relaxers, which come in two main types – lye-based (containing sodium hydroxide) and no-lye (often containing guanidine hydroxide) – are frequent causes of scalp burns. While both types can cause damage if misused, lye-based relaxers are known to be more likely to cause burns.

Why are relaxers so potentially damaging? The alkaline nature of these products works by breaking down the protein bonds in hair, allowing it to be reshaped. However, this same process can also break down the proteins in the scalp, leading to burns if the product is left on too long or used too frequently.

The Dangers of Hair Highlighting

Hair highlighting procedures, while popular, can also lead to severe scalp irritation. A review of eight cases of scalp burns from hair highlighting revealed several potential causes:

• Use of incorrect hydrogen peroxide concentration
• Accidental spillage of heated chemicals
• Contact between heated aluminum foil and the scalp
• Increased sensitivity in pediatric scalps
• Toxic reactions to the chemicals used

These cases underscore the importance of proper application techniques and the potential need for stricter regulation of chemical concentrations in highlighting products.

Sensory Irritation: The Silent Scalp Discomfort

Sensory irritation of the scalp is a unique form of discomfort characterized by itching, stinging, burning, or tingling sensations without visible clinical signs. This type of irritation typically occurs within seconds to minutes after exposure to certain chemicals.

What causes sensory irritation? While the exact pathomechanism remains unknown, factors such as the quality and concentration of the chemical play significant roles. This type of irritation highlights the importance of patch testing and gradual introduction of new hair care products, even if they don’t cause visible reactions.

The Long-Term Consequences of Scalp Irritation

While immediate discomfort is a primary concern with scalp irritation, the long-term consequences can be even more severe. Repeated or severe chemical burns can lead to scarring alopecia, a condition where hair follicles are permanently damaged, leading to irreversible hair loss.

One particularly concerning form of scarring alopecia associated with hair relaxer use is central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA). This condition, which primarily affects women of African descent, begins at the crown of the head and spreads outward, leading to permanent hair loss.

Even more alarmingly, burn scars have the potential to degenerate into malignancies over time. This underscores the critical importance of proper hair care practices and the need for immediate medical attention in cases of severe scalp burns.

Prevention Strategies: Safeguarding Your Scalp

Given the potential risks associated with hair care chemicals, prevention becomes paramount. Here are some strategies to protect your scalp:

• Follow product instructions carefully, especially regarding application time and frequency
• Choose a reputable salon with trained professionals
• Consider patch testing before using new products
• Be aware of your scalp’s sensitivity and adjust product choices accordingly
• Avoid overlapping chemical treatments (e.g., coloring recently relaxed hair)
• Use protective products designed to create a barrier between your scalp and harsh chemicals

For parents considering chemical treatments for their children’s hair, it’s crucial to remember that pediatric scalps may be more sensitive to these products. Some experts suggest that highlighting products should be labeled for adult use only to protect children from unnecessary harm.

Treatment Options for Chemical-Induced Scalp Damage

If you experience scalp irritation or burns from hair care chemicals, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial. Treatment options may include:

1. Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
2. Antibiotics if there’s a risk of infection
3. Gentle cleansing and moisturizing of the affected area
4. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary
5. For long-term hair loss, hair transplantation might be considered

It’s important to note that treatment should be tailored to the individual case and supervised by a healthcare professional, ideally a dermatologist specializing in scalp conditions.

The Future of Hair Care: Balancing Beauty and Safety

As our understanding of scalp health and the potential risks of hair care chemicals grows, the beauty industry is evolving. Many companies are now focusing on developing gentler formulations that achieve desired results without compromising scalp health.

What might the future of hair care look like? We may see:

• Increased use of natural and organic ingredients
• Development of new technologies that achieve similar results with less harsh chemicals
• Greater emphasis on personalized hair care based on individual scalp sensitivity
• Improved regulation and safety standards for hair care products
• Enhanced education for both consumers and hair care professionals about scalp health

As consumers become more aware of the potential risks associated with certain hair treatments, there’s likely to be a growing demand for safer alternatives. This shift could drive significant innovation in the hair care industry, potentially leading to products that offer the desired aesthetic results without compromising scalp health.

Understanding Your Scalp: The Key to Healthy Hair

While the allure of perfectly styled or colored hair is undeniable, it’s crucial to remember that healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. Understanding your scalp’s unique needs and sensitivities is the first step towards maintaining both beauty and health.

How can you better understand your scalp? Consider the following steps:

1. Observe how your scalp reacts to different products and treatments
2. Pay attention to any changes in your scalp’s appearance or sensation
3. Consult with a dermatologist or trichologist for a professional assessment
4. Keep a log of products used and any reactions experienced
5. Learn about your hair and scalp type to choose appropriate products

Remember, what works for one person may not work for another. Your scalp’s health is as unique as you are, and caring for it should be a personalized journey.

The Role of Diet and Lifestyle in Scalp Health

While much of our discussion has focused on external factors affecting scalp health, it’s important not to overlook the role of diet and lifestyle. A healthy scalp is nourished from the inside out, and certain nutrients can play a crucial role in maintaining scalp health and potentially mitigating the effects of chemical treatments.

Consider incorporating the following into your diet:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts) for their anti-inflammatory properties
• Vitamin E (found in nuts and seeds) for its antioxidant effects
• Biotin (found in eggs, nuts, and whole grains) for promoting healthy hair growth
• Zinc (found in lean meats, pumpkin seeds, and lentils) for supporting hair tissue growth and repair

Additionally, managing stress, getting adequate sleep, and staying hydrated can all contribute to overall scalp health. These lifestyle factors can help strengthen your scalp’s natural defenses, potentially making it more resilient to chemical irritants.

The Importance of Professional Guidance

While at-home hair care routines are important, the value of professional guidance cannot be overstated, especially when it comes to chemical treatments. A qualified hairstylist or colorist can:

• Assess your hair and scalp condition before recommending treatments
• Choose appropriate products based on your hair type and desired results
• Apply treatments correctly, minimizing the risk of scalp irritation
• Provide aftercare advice to maintain scalp health post-treatment
• Identify early signs of scalp irritation or damage

When seeking professional hair services, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the products being used, the potential risks, and what steps are being taken to protect your scalp. A reputable professional will welcome these questions and be happy to explain their process.

The Psychological Impact of Scalp Health

It’s crucial to acknowledge that scalp health isn’t just a physical concern – it can have significant psychological impacts as well. Hair is often closely tied to our sense of identity and self-esteem, and issues with scalp health can lead to:

• Decreased confidence
• Anxiety about hair loss or visible scalp conditions
• Social withdrawal
• Depression in severe cases

If you’re experiencing psychological distress due to scalp issues, don’t hesitate to seek support. This might involve talking to a mental health professional, joining support groups for individuals with similar concerns, or working with a dermatologist or trichologist who understands the emotional aspects of hair and scalp health.

Embracing Natural Hair: A Growing Movement

In recent years, there’s been a growing movement towards embracing natural hair textures and colors. This shift is not just about aesthetics – it’s also about scalp health. By reducing reliance on chemical treatments, many people are finding that their scalps become healthier and their hair more manageable over time.

The natural hair movement has led to:

• Increased availability of products designed for natural hair textures
• Greater representation of diverse hair types in media and advertising
• A shift in societal beauty standards to appreciate a wider range of hair types
• More education and resources about caring for natural hair

While embracing natural hair isn’t for everyone, and chemical treatments can still be used safely with proper precautions, this movement has opened up new possibilities for those looking to prioritize scalp health.

The Role of Technology in Scalp Health

Advancements in technology are playing an increasingly important role in scalp health. From at-home devices to professional diagnostic tools, technology is changing how we understand and care for our scalps.

Some exciting developments include:

• Scalp cameras that allow for close-up views of the scalp and hair follicles
• AI-powered apps that can analyze scalp condition and recommend treatments
• Advanced hair analysis tools used by professionals to assess hair and scalp health
• Personalized hair care systems that use individual data to formulate custom products

While these technologies can be helpful tools, they should be used in conjunction with, not as a replacement for, professional medical advice when dealing with scalp health concerns.

In conclusion, maintaining a healthy scalp while achieving desired hair styles requires a balanced approach. By understanding the potential risks of hair care chemicals, taking preventive measures, and seeking appropriate treatment when needed, it’s possible to enjoy beautiful hair without compromising scalp health. Remember, a healthy scalp is the foundation of healthy, beautiful hair.

Scalp Irritation From Hair Care Chemicals

Scalp irritation is defined as dermatitis of the scalp¹ caused by the contact of chemical, physical or biological agents, although endogenous factors such as impaired barrier function and pre-existing dermatitis may also play a role.² Its clinical manifestations can range from mild to severe, with signs and symptoms such as erythema, blister formation, burning/tingling scalp and scalp severe acute irritant dermatitis, which is also known as scalp burn or cosmetic alopecia.^3–5 The four clinical entities are: acute (burn), sensory, non-immunologic contact urticaria (NICU) and cumulative. While scalp irritation also can be caused by contact with physical or biological agents, this column will discuss the irritation resulting from hair chemicals. The desire for a specific hairstyle or color can render the scalp exposed to different hair chemicals that may result to scalp irritation.

Scalp Severe Acute Irritant Dermatitis (Chemical Burn)

Common hair substances that may cause acute scalp irritation are relaxers and hair highlighting chemicals. ^{4, 5} Acute scalp burn—because of the marked damage—deserves detailed investigation, and should be modeled in vitro. Relaxers are classified into two groups—lye, mostly sodium hydroxide; and no-lye, mostly guanidine hydroxide.⁵ According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), “Any relaxer can burn the scalp if used the wrong way.”⁶ However, lye-containing hair relaxers are known to cause more scalp burn than hair relaxers without lye. The adverse effects of relaxer exposure are contact dermatitis⁷ and hair breakage with alopecia, which may also include scarring.^{8, 9} (Additional information on relaxers is available in “Formula Anatomy Deciphered—Hair Relaxers and Straighteners” by Luigi Rigano, PhD, published in the November 2012 issue of Cosmetics & Toiletries.)

Khumalo et al. studied five women of African descent with a history of scalp discomfort. Their scalp discomfort started during or within minutes of a salon hair relaxation procedure, lasted for a few days and healed with scarring alopecia, specifically central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA). ⁵ Lye-containing hair relaxers were used in three women, while no-lye containing relaxers were utilized in the other two. In addition to irritation caused by the relaxer chemicals, other factors causing irritation included relaxers applied for a longer time than recommended, and hair relaxed more frequently than the recommended six to eight weeks.⁵ Other implicated but unlikely etiologic factors for scarring alopecia were: stylists mixing the relaxer in incorrect proportions; poor salon facilities, e.g., lack of running water; contact dermatitis; and hairdressers buying large quantities and transferring them into smaller, unlabeled containers such that users were unaware of whether the relaxer used was lye-containing. Public education would help clarify the possibility of product-association with CCCA.⁵ The frequent correlation of insidious onset of CCCA and scalp burn from hair relaxers warrants further investigation to establish a clear-cut pathogenesis of each condition. ⁵

Chan and Maibach reviewed eight hair highlighting cases that resulted in scalp burn. These treatments were reported in three adults and five children, and possible causes were: use of incorrect hydrogen peroxide concentration, inadvertent spillage of the heated chemicals, contact between the heated aluminium foil and the scalp, pediatric scalp sensitivity, and toxic reaction to the chemicals.^{4, 10–15} Incorrect hydrogen peroxide concentration and contact between the heated aluminium foil and the scalp resulted mainly from the faulty practices of the hair stylist.^{4, 10–15} Toxic reactions from hair highlighting products may necessitate a review of their chemical levels.⁴ All cases resulted in scarring alopecia and were managed medically and surgically.

Moreover, burn scars may degenerate into malignancy.¹⁶ Thus, the importance of knowing the caustic nature of the highlighting chemicals and observing the proper application technique are vital for prevention. ⁴ The authors propose that hair highlighting product manufacturers consider labeling their products for adult-use only to spare children from unnecessary harm; the possibility is highly likely that pediatric scalp is more sensitive than adult scalp to highlighting chemicals.

Sensory Irritation of the Scalp

Sensory irritation of the scalp may be defined as itching, stinging, burning or tingling sensations of the scalp upon contact with certain chemicals in the absence of clinical signs.¹⁷ These subjective symptoms occur within seconds to minutes following chemical exposure. Although the pathomechanism of sensory irritation is unknown, variables such as the quality of the chemical and its concentration affect its outcome. Neural pathways may also play a role. The lactic acid stinging test (LAST) is used to study this type of irritation and is based on self-perceived assessment.^{17, 18} Thus, the threshold for this reaction differs between subjects. ¹⁷

Using oxidative hair dyes such as hydrogen peroxide and strong alkalis have resulted in sensory irritation of the face and scalp.¹⁹ Fujita et al. utilized a self-assessment questionnaire to measure the sensory irritation in various regions of the body caused by two model hair dye bases that contained different amounts of alkali agents without dyes. The occipital region was found as an alternative region of the scalp to test for sensory irritation of the hair dye bases. This study’s outcome suggests that sensory irritation caused by hair dye bases could occur easily on a damaged dry scalp, caused by the decreased TEWL.¹⁹

Non-immunologic Contact Urticaria (NICU) of the Scalp

NICU is a frequent type of immediate contact reaction and occurs without prior sensitization.²⁰ One study reported marked variation in susceptibility to NICU agents, with the most sensitive area being the face—followed by the elbow pit, the upper back, the upper arm, the volar forearm and the lower back. ²¹

Zhai et al. reported that NICU studies of the scalp have not been published,²² thus the researchers compared the reactivity of the scalp, face and back to the non-immunologic urticants benzoic acid (BN), a preservative in cosmetics, and hexyl nicotinate (HN), a skin conditioning agent. The researchers ascertained relative responsiveness in 10 bald males utilizing visual scores (VS), a visual analogue scale (VAS) and biophysical instruments at baseline, 15 min, 30 min and 60 min post-application.²² Results were varied, since the three sites belong to three different regions of the body and have specific diffusion pathways for each NICU urticant.^{23, 24}

Cumulative Irritation of the Scalp

Cumulative irritation refers to irritation occurring after repetitive application over days, weeks or even years, and is characterized by dry and/or scaly scalp.^{3, 17} Since the scalp does not readily show erythema, relatively few studies have been performed to demonstrate cumulative irritancy potential of hair products such as shampoos and conditioners. ²² It is hypothesized, based on consumer complaints, that this arena justifies closer examination. Although poorly understood, the 21-day cumulative irritancy and comparative back-scalp studies might yield insight into this neglected field.²²

Conclusions

Cosmetic hair products are often implicated to cause scalp irritation.²⁵ However, preventing this irritation is not the sole responsibility of the manufacturers—consumers and especially hair dressers also share this responsibility. As manufacturers comply with regulatory directives in a given country, they are encouraged to provide consumer awareness in cooperation with regulators. Furthermore, hairstylists must apply hair chemicals with utmost care and be knowledgeable of the caustic nature of some of these materials.⁴ Lastly, consumers should be encouraged to learn about the possible outcomes of using hair care products and procedures to prevent the possible occurrence of adverse consequences.

References

Send e-mail to [email protected].

1. M Fishbein, Modern Health Medical Adviser, 2nd ed, Garden City Publishing, New York, USA (1969)
   
2. A Amado, JS Taylor and A Sood, Irritant Contact Dermatitis, in Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology in General Medicine, 7th ed, K Wolf, LA Goldsmith and BA Gilchrist et al, eds, McGraw Hill Co., New York, USA (2008) pp 395–401
   
3. JM Lachapelle, Irritant Dermatitis of the Scalp, in Irritant Dermatitis, AL Chew and HI Maibach, eds, Springer, Verlag-Berlin-Heidelberg, Germany (2006) pp 81–88
   
4. HP Chan and HI Maibach, Hair highlights and severe acute irritant dermatitis (“burn”) of the scalp, Cutan Ocul Toxicol 29(4) 229–33 (2010)
   
5. NP Khumalo, K Pillay and RM Ngwanya, Acute ‘relaxer’-associated scarring alopecia: a report of five cases, Br J Dermatol 156(6) 1394–1397 (2007)
   
6. Hair Dye and Hair Relaxers, www. fda.gov/ForConsumers/ByAudience/ForWomen/ucm118527.htm (Accessed Nov 25, 2012)
   
7. BJ Kaur, H Singh and A Lin-Greenberg, Irritant contact dermatitis complicated by deep-seated staphylococcal infection caused by hair relaxer, J Natl Med Assoc 94(2) 121–123 (2002)
   
8. AG Nicholson, CC Harland, RH Bull, et al., Chemical induced cosmetic alopecia, Br J Dermatol 128(5) 537–541 (1993)
   
9. JJ Miller, Relaxer-induced alopecia, Am J Contact Derm 12(2) 238–239 (2001)
   
10. P Goon and A Misra, A possible chemical burn to the scalp following hair highlights, Burns 31(3) 530–531 (2005)
    
11. P Maguina, M Shah-Khan, G An and M Hanumadass, Chemical scalp burns after hair highlights, J Burn Care Res 28(2) 361–363 (2007)
    
12. W Peters, The hair color-highlighting burn: a unique burn injury, J Burn Care Rehab 21(2) 96–98 (2000)
    
13. JJ Lund, R Unwala, L Xia and V Gottlieb, Chemical scalp burns secondary to the hair highlighting process: clinical and histopathological features, Pediatr Dermatol 27(1) 74–78 (2010)
    
14. CM Schröder, D Höller Obrikeit, HF Merk and F Abuzahara, Necrotizing toxic contact dermatitis of the scalp from hydrogen peroxide [in German], Hautartz 59(2) 148–150 (2008)
    
15. CD Jensen and H Sosted, Chemical burns to scalp from hair bleach and dye, Acta Dermatol Venereol 86(5) 461–462 (2006)
    
16. DA Whiting, Traumatic alopecia, Int J Dermatol 38(suppl 1) 33–44 (1999)
    
17. AL Chew and HI Maibach, Ten Genotypes of Irritant Contact Dermatitis, in Irritant Dermatitis, AL Chew and HI Maibach, eds, Springer, Verlag-Berlin-Heidelberg, Germany (2006) pp 5–9
    
18. M Breternitz, JW Flurh and E Berardesca, Technical Bases of Biophysical Instruments Used in Sensitive Skin Testing, in Sensitive Skin Syndrome, E Berardesca, JW Flurh and HI Maibach, eds, Taylor & Francis Group, LLC, New York, USA (2006) pp 75–106
    
19. F Fujita, T Azuma, M Tajiri, H Okamoto, M Sano and M Tominga, Significance of hair-dye base-induced sensory irritation, Int J Cosmet Sci, 32(3) 217–224 (2010)
    
20. S Amin, A Lahti and HI Maibach, Contact urticaria and the contact urticaria syndrome (immediate contact reactions), in Dermatotoxicology, 7th ed, H Zhai, KP Wilhelm and HI Maibach, eds, CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL USA (2008) pp 525–536
    
21. R Gollhausen and AM Kligman, Human assay for identifying substances which induce non-allergic contact urticati: the NICU test, Contact Dermatitis 13(2) 98–106 (1985)
    
22. H Zhai, Y Zheng, R Fautz, A Fuchs and HI Maibach, Reactions of non-immunologic contact urticaria on scalp, face and back, Skin Res Technol 2011 Nov 9. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0846.2011.00590.x. (Epub ahead of print)
    
23. RC Wester and HI Maibach, Cutaneous pharmacokinetics: 10 steps to percutaneous absorption, Drug Metab Rev 14(2) 169–205 (1983)
    
24. RC Wester and HI Maibach, Regional variation in percutaneous absorption: principles and applications to human risk assessment, in Percutaneous absorption: drugs, cosmetics, mechanisms, methods, 4th ed, RL Bronaugh and HI Maibach, eds, Taylor & Francis, Boca Raton, FL USA (2005) pp 85–93
    
25. CL Gummer, Cosmetics and hair loss, Clin Exp Dermatol 27 (5) 418–421 (2002)

Chemical burn from hair dye? Here’s how to treat chemical burns on the scalp

Chemical burns can happen anywhere, from things as simple as misusing hair products and household cleaners to more malicious instances of assault. At Burn and Reconstructive Centers of America (BRCA), our nationwide healthcare teams provide comprehensive chemical burn treatment, from acute care of the burn injury to reconstruction of the affected area/s.   

What is a chemical burn?

A chemical burn occurs when a corrosive agent causes irritation or damage to the skin and soft tissue. Chemical burns are commonly caused by substances that are either strong acids, like hydrochloric acid, or strong bases (alkalines), like sodium hydroxide.

How can hair dye cause a chemical burn to the scalp?

The scalp skin is just as sensitive as facial skin and may be easily irritated by some of the contents in hair dyes. You may notice a tingling, itching or burning sensation when you dye or bleach your hair. These are mild symptoms of a chemical irritation that, if prolonged, may progress into a chemical burn that has the potential to damage the hair, hair follicles and the skin. So, what is it about hair dye that can cause such extreme injury? Like all other chemical burn agents, it is the ingredients that cause the harm.

What are some of the harmful ingredients found in hair dye?

Some harmful chemicals common in hair dyes that have the potential to cause irritations or burns include:

Ammonia: When you’re dying your hair, you might notice a strong chemical smell. What you’re smelling is most likely the ammonia in the hair dye. Ammonia is an alkaline agent used to open the hair cuticle allowing the hair to absorb the dyes. Ammonia is often used in fertilizers and can cause scalp irritation, including itching.

Hydrogen peroxide: This is a base substance that is commonly diluted and used as a mild antiseptic. However, hydrogen peroxide in this form is used to strip the hair to prepare it for the dye application. More concentrated hydrogen peroxide is often used industrially as a strong oxidizer that can cause explosions when heated.

Lead acetate: Typically found in low concentrations, lead acetate is one of the main active ingredients in hair dyes, especially dark colors. You wouldn’t want lead in the paint in your house, you do not want lead in your hair dye as it can lead to lead poisoning and long-term health issues such as anemia and neurological conditions.

Resorcinol (used as a disinfectant, benzene): Often found in permanent hair dyes, resorcinol reacts with hydrogen peroxide to develop the color. It is a toxic chemical known to cause allergic reactions and skin and eye irritation.

P-phenylenediamine: In permanent hair dyes, this organic compound is used as an oxidizing agent. This agent belongs to a group of chemicals often found as plastic and chemical byproducts. It is known to cause skin sensitivity, cancer, cell mutations and lethal toxicity if ingested.

DMDM hydantoin: This chemical is a preservative found in skin and hair care products. In recent years, there have been studies and lawsuits that may suggest this chemical can cause allergic reactions and hair loss.

Lye: Lye is used in many hair relaxers, which react with the proteins in your hair allowing curly or kinky hair to be temporarily straightened. Lye or sodium hydroxide is a strong alkali substance that can cause burns and irritation. Lye burns are fairly common injuries across our system, so be sure to check ingredients on hair products and proper use directions.

Is hair dye supposed to burn? Here are the signs and symptoms of chemical burn from hair dye

Due to the ingredients listed above, hair dye is likely to cause temporary irritation such as burning, itching or tingling, and prolonged use can make it worse. However, there are some long-term effects of hair dye that can be concerning. Regular use of hair dye can:

• Change the structure of your hair, making it brittle and straw-like
• Cause a chemical burn
• Damage the hair and hair follicles causing hair loss
• Lead to a higher risk of cancer, especially if using darker hair dyes that may include coal tar or lead bioproducts as an ingredient
• Alter your natural hair color over time

A burning scalp after hair dye application is a reaction many people feel in mild degrees. Though this temporary scalp irritation is normal during the dying process, quickly wash out the hair product with water for ten minutes if you begin to experience excruciating pain or signs of an allergic reaction during the dying, bleaching or perming process. Ensure you wash all areas that may have come into contact with the chemical agent. If the chemical agent is accidentally left on, it may continue to burn the area until it is cleaned off. Once the product has been rinsed out, inspect your scalp for redness, discoloration, scabbing or open wounds. If you notice any of these signs, these may be indications of a chemical burn from hair dye, and it is recommended to seek medical attention to ensure the burning process is stopped, the chemical is neutralized correctly and the area is treated.

You should never attempt to neutralize chemicals at home, as this could lead to further chemical reactions and injury. If some of the product is ingested, please call poison control at 800-222-1222.

How can you help prevent complications from hair dye?

While there is no guarantee that the following won’t cause unwanted side effects, they are known to be healthier alternatives for changing your look. When dyeing, bleaching or perming your hair:

• Consider ammonia-free products
• Consider a no-lye relaxer
• Consider trading out permanent hair dye for semi-permanent hair dye
• Apply conditioner regularly
• Use a deep conditioning hair mask before dyeing, bleaching or perming
• Read the ingredients, warning and direction label on the product before using
• Wear gloves when applying the products
• Apply the products in a well-ventilated space

Further Information

For more information about chemical burns, please visit our website at www. burncenters.com or click here. If you are suffering from a chemical burn, please don’t wait to seek help. Call our experts 24/7 at (855) 863-9595 for all your non-emergent needs. For emergencies, please call 911 or, if a toxic chemical has been ingested, call the Poison Control Hotline at (800) 222-1222.

For information on battery acid burns, please click here.

Treatment of chemical burns of the head – clinic. Reshetova

Do you have a scalp burn? Don’t know what to do? Call us urgently.

• Precision modern equipment
• Individual treatments
• Most affordable prices
• We are located in the very center of Moscow

Do you have a scalp burn? Don’t know what to do? Call us urgently. Specialists of the Reshetov Institute will understand the problem and provide effective treatment. Our clinic employs experienced doctors with over 20 years of experience. For each patient only an individual approach. We will return you to a full life without pain and discomfort. Do not be shy. Sign up for an inspection and consultation by phone.

We also treat limb injuries in Moscow.

How can a chemical burn of the scalp occur?

Damage to the head skin can be of a different nature:

• Thermal or radiation injury,
• Chemical burn.

Very often, such a nuisance occurs when you dye your hair yourself, as a result of an allergy, or due to an oversight of the master in the salon. A burn can occur when laboratory assistants come into contact with chemicals.

When soft tissues are injured, you may experience pain, burning and itching, observe redness, swelling, blisters. Temperature rise is possible.

Treatment of a chemical burn of the scalp is carried out in a complex manner, in several stages.

1) Drugs used to relieve pain and discomfort;

2) Anti-inflammatory and restorative therapy is carried out;

3) After the treatment procedures are performed to cleanse and nourish the scalp (mesotherapy, etc. ).

If the follicles have not been destroyed, the trichologist prescribes drugs that will help restore hair growth. With significant damage to the hair follicles, a donor material is transplanted.

We offer high-quality treatment of the consequences resulting from a chemical injury to the scalp using innovative methods.

We are always ready to help you!

Why do patients love us?

Our clinic was founded on the basis of the Institute of Surgical Correction and Rehabilitation. In the treatment of any diseases and injuries, the most effective, individually selected methods are used.

We conduct a thorough examination and help to restore the patient’s health as much as possible.

The clinic has innovative high-tech medical equipment.

Consultations and treatment are carried out by leading specialists with extensive practice and a decent amount of knowledge.

In the diagnostic laboratory we will carry out any examinations:

• X-ray, CT, MRI;
• Radionuclide diagnostics;
• Angiography.
• Ultrasound of all organs;
• Laboratory tests.

Turning to our clinic, you will receive a complete diagnosis and highly effective treatment of chemical burns of the scalp, body, limbs, various oncological diseases, etc.

A little about us

Our clinic, founded by VD Reshetov, is located in Moscow. There is a state license for the provision of medical services. We provide planned and emergency hospitalization around the clock. We have 3 generations of doctors.

• We develop and put into practice advanced technologies for treatment and rehabilitation.
• Under the guidance of the Honored Academic Consultant of Russia, we find creative methods and apply them in practice.
• All clinic management and staff, doctors and patients are protected by law.
• The whole process from examination to treatment and recovery is legal.

Our medical center has a scientific base of more than 100 copyrights, which are protected by the laws of the Russian Federation, the European Union and the United States.

We see our mission in helping people with serious illnesses. We use a scientific approach to healing based on creation.

We also invite you to read information about recovery after burns to limbs.

To make an appointment for an examination, treatment or rehabilitation, call the reception at:

Reviews

• Konstantin

  06/01/2022

  Doctors are real saviors. They helped me with the treatment of a chemical burn of the head. We got a good course of treatment. Very grateful!

• Evdokia

  06/01/2022

  I would like to express my deep gratitude to the clinic. Reshetov. They saved my life! By accident, I received a chemical burn of the scalp, and I urgently had to look for a clinic where they would provide proper assistance. Came here and don’t regret it! Doctors are very qualified specialists, they helped me with my problem. They put me on the right medication, which worked for me.

degrees, types and methods of treatment in Moscow at the Center for Surgery “SM-Clinic”

general information

Kinds

Degrees and symptoms

Diagnostics

Operations

Expert opinion of a doctor

Rehabilitation

Question answer

General information

A burn is tissue damage caused by exposure to high temperatures, aggressive substances, electric current, light or ionizing radiation. The most common are thermal variants of lesions. Light injuries can be easily treated on an outpatient basis, severe and extensive ones can cause the death of a patient from malfunctions of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, as well as infectious complications. Burns of the scalp and neck require special attention from doctors due to the risk of concomitant damage to the respiratory tract and eyes, as well as the proximity of vital structures.

Types of head and neck burns

Degrees and symptoms of scalp and neck burns

Burn diagnostics

Diagnosis of burns is based on the collection of complaints and anamnesis (under what circumstances the injury was received, what damaging factor affected and how much, etc.), as well as visual examination with an approximate determination of the depth and area of ​​the lesion. If necessary, blood and urine tests, ultrasound of the kidneys and other tests aimed at assessing the state of the body are carried out. Also, other specialists, for example, ophthalmologists or ENT doctors, can be connected to the diagnosis.

Head and neck burn surgery

Superficial burns with a relatively small area of ​​injury are treated mainly conservatively. For deeper injuries, the help of surgeons is required. The main measures are aimed at the speedy healing of damage and the fullest possible restoration of the skin. For this, two types of interventions are used, performed in different phases of treatment:

• surgical treatment of the wound surface with excision of dead tissues (necrectomy): the doctor removes all non-viable areas and flushes the burn to prevent or stop purulent complications;
• skin plastic surgery (autodermoplasty): transplantation of an area of ​​intact skin from another part of the body is performed; since we are talking about exposed parts of the body, for the most aesthetic result, whole pieces are used, and not mesh grafts.

Severe and generalized injuries are treated in a specialized burn unit.

Doctor’s expert opinion

Rehabilitation after surgical treatment

The need for hospitalization and its duration depends on the severity of the burn. During the rehabilitation period, it is required to carefully follow all the doctor’s recommendations in order to prevent the development of scars and contractures. It is necessary to take prescribed drugs of general and local action (ointments, creams), attend courses of physiotherapy, exercise therapy, etc. The physical activity of the patient is restored gradually. Any kind of overheating and exposure to ultraviolet radiation is strictly prohibited.

Question-answer

Yes, such cases occur when using low-quality formulations or non-compliance with the instructions for their use.

As a first aid, it is necessary to stop contact with the irritant: cool the burnt surface in case of a thermal burn, rinse with running water in case of a chemical one.