Parentsshould be aware of the possible risks ofhair colouruse before they leave theirschildrenExperiment with hair color, a doctor warned.
One of the most commonly used chemicals in hair dye, para-phenylenediamine (PPD), can cause skin reactions, worsen asthma and, in rare cases, result in systemic disease (a disease that affects the entire body), according to Dr. Rahul Chodhari, spokesperson for the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH).
“There is limited research into the long-term effects of hair dye use, especially in children, but children and adults are increasingly showing signs of reactions to PPD,” he told HuffPost UK.
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So if your child is desperate for a brand new hair color, keep these things in mind before you say yes or no:
Health risks
Hair dyes containing PPD can be used safely on adults, provided safety instructions are followed. However, until further research is done on the potential risks of PPD, the extent of the risk to children is unclear.
It is known that hair dye can cause serious allergic reactions.
“People can have a serious allergic reaction to some ingredients in hair dye, just as some people are allergic to certain foods,” explains Hilary Hall, chief executive of the trade association.Natural Hair Federation.
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“When salons ask a customer to take an allergy test, even though it may be uncomfortable, they do so to protect the safety and well-being of their customers.”
Dr. Chodhari adds that darker shades of dyes pose a greater risk of an allergic reaction because these colors may contain higher concentrations of PPD.
Using Wash Out Dye does not reduce the risk
Unfortunately, even if your child uses a dye that washes out, this does not minimize the health risk as it may still contain the PPD chemical, which can cause allergic reactions.
There are safer alternatives
Dr. Chodhari recommends plant-based hair dyes, which are becoming increasingly available.
"But you should read the packaging carefully because some products marketed as 'natural' hair color may still contain the PPD chemical," he said.
"If in doubt, do not use the product."
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Salons are not allowed to color your child's hair
According to the Natural Hair Federation's code of practice, hairdressers should not use hair color products on people under the age of 16.
However, the BBC has announced thisproofthat some hair salons do not follow these guidelines.
During aX-ray study from BBC Wales1 in 17 salons offered coloring to a 12-year-old.
“Salons have a duty to be aware of and strictly enforce the restrictions surrounding the use of hair dye on children,” said Dr. Chodhari.
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How to treat a child if he/she reacts to hair dye
Dr. Chodhari advised, "If you think a child is reacting to hair dye, but it is not an emergency, wash the hair and scalp thoroughly with mild shampoo to remove excess dye."
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"You can also try gently applying an emollient, such as an aqueous cream, to the affected skin. Consult your doctor if problems persist."
But if you think your child is experiencing anaphylaxis,NHS choicerecommend calling 999 and giving an adrenaline injection if you have one.
Signs of anaphylaxis include:
* Itchy skin or a raised, red rash.
* Swollen eyes, lips, hands and feet.
* Feeling light-headed or dizzy.
* Swelling of the mouth, throat or tongue, which can cause breathing and swallowing problems.
* Wheezing.
* Abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.
* Collapse and become unconscious.
