Dealing With An Itchy, Flaking Scalp After Dyeing or Coloring Your Hair

Dealing With Scalp Flaking After Coloring Your Hair

Getting your hair colored can be an exciting experience. However, some people find that they develop flaky, itchy scalps afterwards. Scalp flaking and irritation is actually quite common after hair dyeing. While annoying, it's usually temporary and there are things you can do to treat it.

What Causes Scalp Flaking After Coloring?

There are a few potential causes of scalp flaking and irritation after coloring your hair:

• Chemical irritation - Hair dye contains chemicals like ammonia and peroxide that can irritate the scalp. People with sensitive skin may experience flaking and itching.
• Damage to scalp skin - The process of lifting color from your hair can cause mild damage to the skin on your scalp. This can make it flaky and dry.
• Allergic reaction - Some people may have an allergy or sensitivity to an ingredient in the hair dye. This causes an itchy rash and flaking.
• Exacerbation of dandruff - Coloring may worsen existing dandruff by irritating the scalp.
• Exacerbation of psoriasis - Hair dye chemicals can trigger scalp psoriasis flares in some people.

Tips to Treat Scalp Flaking After Coloring

If you experience scalp flaking, irritation, or sensitivity after dyeing your hair, here are some tips to soothe and treat it:

1. Wash with a gentle shampoo

Use a sulfate-free, hypoallergenic shampoo for a few weeks after coloring your hair. Avoid harsh shampoos that could further dry out or irritate a sensitive scalp.

2. Use an anti-dandruff shampoo

If the flaking persists, try washing with an anti-dandruff shampoo that contains pyrithione zinc, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole. These ingredients help reduce fungal overgrowth and flaking.

3. Apply a scalp treatment

Look for scalp treatments containing soothing natural oils like coconut, argan, tea tree or aloe vera. These can help moisturize, reduce inflammation, and ease itching.

4. Exfoliate gently

Gently massaging the scalp with a soft brush or your fingertips can help loosen and exfoliate flaky buildup after dyeing. Don't scratch or pick at your scalp.

5. Use a moisturizing conditioner

Nourish your scalp with a rich, moisturizing conditioner after shampooing. Avoid getting conditioner directly on the scalp if you have oily hair or dandruff.

6. Apply hydrocortisone cream

For severe itching and inflammation, apply an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream. This can help calm allergic reactions and soothe irritation.

7. Take an antihistamine

If anti-itch creams aren't helping, try taking an antihistamine like Benadryl to reduce an allergic reaction and itchiness.

8. Use cold compresses

Placing cold compresses or ice packs on the scalp can ease inflammation, itching, and discomfort after dyeing.

9. Avoid heat styling

Heat from blow drying, curling irons, or straighteners can worsen scalp irritation. Let your hair air dry until the scalp flaking subsides.

10. See a dermatologist

See your dermatologist if scalp flaking and itching lasts longer than a few weeks after coloring. They can assess for allergies or conditions like seborrheic dermatitis.

Tips to Prevent Flaking Before Coloring

You may be able to reduce the risk of developing flaky, irritated scalp after coloring your hair by:

• Doing a patch test for dye allergies at least 48 hours before
• Treating any dandruff several weeks before dyeing
• Using a hair dye formulated for sensitive scalps
• Opting for semi-permanent or demi-permanent colors over permanent
• Using lower volume peroxide developer
• Rinsing hair thoroughly after coloring
• Moisturizing hair and scalp before and after
• Avoiding scratching or picking at your scalp

When to See a Doctor

In most cases, scalp itching and flaking after coloring will resolve on its own within a few weeks. However, see your doctor if you experience:

• Severe or worsening rash, redness, swelling, or tenderness
• Oozing or weeping from the scalp
• Diffuse hair loss
• Bad dandruff or flakes persisting longer than 1 month
• Hives or difficulty breathing, indicating anaphylaxis

These symptoms could signify a more serious allergy or skin condition requiring treatment.

The Takeaway

It's common to deal with an itchy, flaky scalp in the days or weeks after coloring your hair. Using gentle shampoos, moisturizing conditioners, and anti-itch creams can help soothe the scalp irritation. See a doctor if severe symptoms develop. With some care for your scalp, you can keep your color looking great.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.