Can Hair Dye Cause Hair Loss?

• February 19, 2023
• Crown Clinic

Last updated on May 28, 2024

Hair dyeing is a popular way to change hair colour, but some people are concerned that it could cause hair loss. This concern has led to the question, “Can hair dye cause hair loss?” In this blog, we will explore the answer to this question and look at the factors that can contribute to hair loss.

Understanding Hair Growth

Before we delve into the topic, it’s essential to understand how hair grows. Hair growth is a complex process that involves the hair follicle, which is a small sac in the skin that produces hair. Hair growth goes through three phases: anagen, catagen, and telogen.

Anagen is the growth phase, catagen is the transitional phase, and telogen is the resting phase. During the telogen phase, hair falls out and new hair starts to grow.

Do permanent dyes cause hair loss?

Hair dye can cause hair loss and breakage, but it’s rare. Hair dye is a chemical mixture that can penetrate the hair shaft and change its colour. The chemicals in hair dye can cause irritation and inflammation of the scalp, which can damage the hair follicles. The damage can lead to hair loss, but it’s typically temporary.

Temporary hair loss

Temporary hair loss from hair dye is usually due to the dye’s harsh chemicals. The chemicals can weaken the hair shaft, causing it to break or fall out. However, the hair follicles remain intact, and new hair growth resumes after a few months.

It’s important to note that reduced hair health and temporary hair loss from hair dye are usually due to overuse or misuse of the product.

Permanent hair loss

Permanent hair loss from hair dye is rare, but it can happen. Hair dye can cause permanent hair loss if it damages the hair shafts and hair follicles. If the damage is severe, the hair follicle may not be able to produce new hair, resulting in permanent hair loss.

Permanent hair loss from hair dye is more likely to occur if the dye is left on for too long or if the scalp is damaged from previous hair treatments.

Factors That Contribute to Hair Loss

There are numerous factors that can contribute to hair loss, including:

• Genetics
• Stress
• Medication
• Hormonal changes
• Diet

Hair dye is not typically a significant contributor to hair loss, but it can exacerbate existing conditions.

If you’re concerned about hair loss, it’s essential to speak with your doctor to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Preventing Hair Loss from Hair Dye

If you’re concerned about hair loss from hair dye, there are steps you can take to prevent it. Here are some tips:

• Choose permanent hair dyes that are gentle on your scalp and hair. Look for products that are labelled “natural” or “organic” and avoid harsh chemicals like ammonia and hydrogen peroxide.
• Follow the instructions on the hair dye package carefully. Don’t leave the dye on for longer than recommended, and be sure to rinse thoroughly.
• Test the hair dye on a small patch of skin before applying it to your entire head. This will help you determine if you’re allergic to any of the ingredients.
• Consider alternatives to traditional hair dyes, like henna or vegetable-based dyes. These products are gentler on your hair and scalp and can provide similar results.

Lushy-looking hair strands can be achieved with safe hair colouring products.

Crown Clinic for Hair Restoration

If you’re seeking hair restoration services, Crown Clinic may be an excellent choice. The clinic is staffed with experienced and skilled hair transplant doctors who use the latest techniques and technologies to provide natural-looking and long-lasting results for their patients.

They offer various hair restoration procedures, including Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), and Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP), among others. Crown Clinic also takes a personalised approach to care and offers comprehensive consultations to ensure each patient’s unique needs and goals are met.

To schedule a consultation at our Melbourne clinic, please contact us at 02 9134 4788 or book online via our website.

Our Doctors

Dr Tony Prochazka

MBBS (Melb) FACCSM (Med) FCPCA / Cosmetic Doctor

Dr Tony Prochazka has over 20 years of experience with various hair restoration techniques. He Prochazka was also the Inaugural Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and a former vice-president of the Cosmetic Physicians Society of Australasia.

Dr Raphael Dworkin

MBBS, BSc (Hons), ACEM

Dr Raphael Dworkin works as a senior critical care doctor at a top Sydney hospital. He has extensive knowledge and experience in several restorative hair techniques. He graduated and trained at some of the most prestigious hospitals in London.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please read our most frequently asked questions:

Will hair loss from dye grow back?

Hair loss from the dye is typically temporary and grows back on its own after a few months. The chemicals in hair dye can weaken the hair shaft, leading to breakage or hair fall. However, the hair follicles remain intact, and new hair growth resumes after a few months.

It’s important to note that permanent hair loss from hair dye is rare and usually occurs when the dye damages the hair follicle.

Why is my hair falling out after dying it?

Hair falling out after dyeing is a common concern. Hair dye can cause temporary hair loss due to the chemicals in the product. The chemicals can weaken the hair shaft, causing it to break or fall out.

Additionally, the chemicals in hair dye can irritate the scalp and lead to inflammation, which can also contribute to hair loss. However, hair falling out after dyeing can also be a sign of an underlying health condition or a result of genetics. If you’re concerned about hair loss, it’s essential to speak with your doctor or a dermatologist.

Which hair dye does not cause hair loss?

Choosing a hair dye that does not cause hair loss can be challenging. However, some hair dyes are gentler on the hair and scalp and less likely to cause hair loss. Natural and organic hair dyes are a good option, as they typically contain fewer harsh chemicals than traditional hair dyes.

Henna and vegetable-based dyes are also gentler on the hair and scalp and can provide similar results to traditional hair dyes. It’s important to read the ingredients on the hair dye package and avoid harsh chemicals like ammonia and peroxide.

Can hair dye damage hair follicles?

Hair dye can damage hair follicles if the chemicals in the product are too harsh. The chemicals in hair dye can irritate the scalp and lead to inflammation, which can damage the hair follicles.

Additionally, if the hair dye is left on for too long, it can cause the hair follicles to become damaged, resulting in permanent hair loss. It’s important to choose a hair dye that’s gentle on the hair and scalp and follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging the hair follicles.

If you’re concerned about hair loss or hair follicle damage, it’s essential to speak with your doctor or a dermatologist.

This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a prescription. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor.