Hair color is popular for both women and men. It is a great, simple way to freshen your look, satisfy your urge for a change, or help trim a few years off the top. Whether you get it off the shelf or in the salon, there are many types of hair coloring processes to choose from.
Which hair coloring processes are less irritating for people with psoriasis?
Take a look at your options, then talk to your doctor about which one might be right for you. Your hairdresser should be happy to help you achieve the look you want.
| Type of hair color | How it works | Advantages | Considerations |
| Vegetable tints & hennas | Extracts from plants, flowers, herbs, and roots stain hair temporarily (henna, however, is considered a permanent dye) | - Most vegetable dyes (except hennas) will wash out of the hair
- Skin irritation is unlikely
| - If overused, buildup from hennas and vegetable tints may change the feel and texture of hair, making it coarse and dry
|
| Temporary | Stains hair by depositing color on the surface, not by changing the existing natural color | - Easy to apply
- Great for an intro to hair coloring
- Good for brightening existing color
- Skin irritation is unlikely
| - Only lasts from shampoo to shampoo
- Color may rub off on pillows or collars; can run with perspiration
- Using a dark color can stain light hair
|
| Semi-permanent | A mild alkaline reaction (pH of 8.0 to 9.0) allows color to deposit into the hair | - Many shades to choose from
- Adds gloss and shine to hair without harsh chemicals
- Color washes out gradually over 4 to 6 shampoos
- No lightening of the hair's natural pigment
| - Semi-permanent colors do not cause significant permanent changes to the hair and are less damaging
|
| Demi-permanent | Similar to semi-permanent, but contains a small amount of hydrogen peroxide and non-ammonia alkali | - Generally no lightening of the hair's natural pigment
- Color lasts longer than other semi-permanent colors
| - Potential for peroxide to irritate skin
|
| Permanent | Hydrogen peroxide reacts with ammonia to lighten pigment of natural hair, and allow color to be deposited | - Can produce colors lighter or darker than the natural hair shade
- Color doesn't wash out
| - The high alkalinity of ammonia used (pH around 12) combined with the strength of acidic peroxide could seriously irritate sensitive skin, potentially causing burns
|
Tips for a smooth color process:
- Talk to your doctor about which one may be a better option for you.
- Consult with your hairdresser about your condition, your options, and your desired result.
- Ask your hairdresser to do a patch test at least 24 hours before coloring, to gauge your skin's reaction.
- Apply a layer of cream, petroleum jelly, or other moisturizing ointment along your hairline first, as a barrier to keep color from dripping onto your face, ears, or other sensitive areas.
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