From the Research
Pharmacists should be knowledgeable about hair dyes because they contain chemicals like paraphenylenediamine (PPD), ammonia, hydrogen peroxide, and resorcinol that can potentially interact with topical or systemic medications and cause adverse reactions in patients. According to a study published in 2018 1, the mixture of ingredients used in permanent hair dyes can have an irritant effect on the skin, leading to epidermal damage, skin barrier loss, and increased IL-1 α release. This highlights the importance of pharmacists being aware of the potential risks associated with hair dye use, particularly in patients with pre-existing skin conditions or those taking certain medications.
Some key points to consider include:
- Hair dyes can interact with medications like anticoagulants, antibiotics, and antimalarials, increasing the risk of adverse reactions 2
- Patients with conditions like psoriasis or eczema may be more susceptible to scalp irritation from hair dyes 3
- Hair dye allergies are common, with symptoms ranging from mild irritation to severe anaphylaxis, and pharmacists should be able to recognize and recommend appropriate treatments 4
- The allergenicity of PPD is related to oxidative processes on and in the skin, and patients with stronger reactions to PPD are more likely to have a clear history of reacting to normal consumer hair dye 5
By understanding these interactions and potential risks, pharmacists can provide comprehensive medication management and prevent adverse effects in patients who use hair dyes. It is essential for pharmacists to be knowledgeable about hair dyes to ensure the safe use of these products and to provide appropriate counseling to patients.