Many people dye their hair at home, but is it safe to dye your hair with a sunburned scalp? The answer is complicated.
On the one hand, you may be more susceptible to skin irritation and other problems if you dye your hair when it’s sunburned. Some people say that dying your hair with a sunburned scalp can help soothe the burn. So what’s the truth?
In this article, we’ll explore the risks and benefits of dying your hair with a sunburned scalp. We’ll also provide some tips on how to protect your scalp from the sun, in case you’re considering dyeing your hair in the future.
So, Can You Dye Your Hair With a Sunburned Scalp?
The answer is, unfortunately, no. Dyeing your hair when you have a sunburned scalp can potentially worsen the condition of your scalp and may even lead to hair loss.
If you absolutely must dye your hair, wait until the sunburn has healed completely before doing so. In the meantime, try wearing a hat or scarf to cover up your sunburned scalp.
Why is It Bad to Dye Your Hair With a Sunburned Scalp?
When you have a sunburn, your skin is already inflamed and sensitive. Applying hair dye to a sunburned scalp can further irritate the skin and may even cause an allergic reaction.
In some cases, people have reported hair loss after dying their hair with a sunburned scalp. It’s also important to note that hair dye can potentially increase your risk of skin cancer, so it’s best to avoid dyeing your hair if you’re worried about this.
What Are the Risks of Dying Your Hair With a Sunburned Scalp?
Dyeing your hair with a sunburned scalp can potentially cause a number of problems, including:
- Irritation and inflammation of the skin: Applying hair dye to a sunburned scalp can further irritate the skin and may even cause an allergic reaction.
- Hair loss: In some cases, people have reported hair loss after dying their hair with a sunburned scalp.
- Increased risk of skin cancer: Hair dye can potentially increase your risk of skin cancer, so it’s best to avoid dyeing your hair if you’re worried about this.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to the ingredients in hair dye, which can cause a number of problems, including itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms after dying your hair with a sunburned scalp, seek medical attention immediately.
Are There Any Benefits to Dyeing Your Hair With a Sunburned Scalp?
There are no reported advantages to dyeing one’s hair while suffering a sunburned scalp. In fact, applying it can cause your scalp to get worse and even result in hair loss.
If you must dye your hair, wait until the sunburn has completely healed before doing so. Alternatively, wear a hat or scarf to hide your burned scalp while you wait.
When to Dye Your Hair After a Sunburn?
It’s best to wait until your sunburn has completely healed before dyeing your hair. This typically takes about two weeks. In the meantime, you can try wearing a hat or scarf to cover up your sunburned scalp.
Once your sunburn has healed, be sure to use a gentle, hypoallergenic hair dye and follow all of the instructions on the box carefully.
If you have any questions or concerns about dyeing your hair with a sunburned scalp, be sure to speak with your doctor or dermatologist. They can provide you with more information and help you decide if dyeing your hair is right for you.
What if I’m Desperate to Dye My Hair and My Scalp is Sunburned?
There are some alternative options to dying your hair if you have a sunburned scalp. Some people may suggest using a semi-permanent or demi-permanent hair color.
These types of hair color will deposit color onto the hair shaft, but will not penetrate the scalp like permanent hair color does. This can be a safer option for those with a sunburned scalp.
Another option is to wait until the sunburn has healed completely before dying your hair. This may take a few days or even weeks, depending on the severity of the sunburn. Once the sunburn has healed, you can then proceed with dying your hair as usual.
If you are adamant about dying your hair while your scalp is sunburned, you can try using a hair color that is specifically designed for use on sunburned skin. These hair colors usually contain ingredients that help to soothe and protect the skin.
Before using any type of hair color on a sunburned scalp, it is important to test a small area first to ensure that you do not have an allergic reaction.
In general, it is best to avoid dying your hair if you have a sunburned scalp. If you must dye your hair, be sure to use a hair color that is specifically designed for use on sunburned skin and test a small area first.
How to Care for a Sunburned Scalp
To care for a sunburned scalp, start by gently cleansing the area with mild soap and cool water. Avoid using harsh detergents or scrubbing too vigorously, as this can further irritate the skin. Once the area is clean, apply a cool compress to the sunburned areas for 10-15 minutes at a time.
You can also try soaking a cloth in cold milk and applying it to the sunburned areas for a similar effect. If your sunburn is particularly severe or painful, you may also want to take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen.
In most cases, sunburned scalps will heal on their own within a week or two. However, if you experience any signs of infection, such as pus-filled blisters, fever, or redness spreading beyond the sunburned area, be sure to see a doctor right away.
Also, be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and avoid spending extended periods of time in the sun until your scalp has fully healed.
How Can I Protect My Scalp From the Sun?
If you’re worried about damaging your scalp with hair dye, there are a few things you can do to protect it from the sun.
First, try to avoid spending extended periods of time in direct sunlight. If you must be in the sun, make sure to wear a hat or scarf to cover up your scalp. You can also apply sunscreen to your scalp to help protect it from the sun’s harmful rays.
Conclusion
Hair color chemicals can further irritate sunburned skin, so as a hair colorist, I generally don’t recommend dyeing your hair if you have a sunburn.
If you must proceed with coloring your hair despite my recommendation, use a product that is specifically designed for use on burned skin and test it on a small area first. Irritation or pain during testing is an indication that you should discontinue using the product.
Have you ever tried dyeing your hair with a sunburned scalp? Let us know in the comments below!
See Also: Can You Dye Your Hair When It’s Greasy?