When someone has an ‘allergy to hair dye’, they are usually allergic to one of the chemicals in the color product.

The most common cause of these allergic reactions is para-phenylenediamine, also called PPD.

Leading breast cancer researchers also recommend reducing exposure to PPD, and we recommend listening to them.

The Shade’s entire color range is free from ammonia, PPD, parabens, phthalates, SLS, titanium dioxide and gluten.

PPD (para-phenylenediamine) is a chemical found in many hair other color brands, particularly in the darker colors, as it is a very effective coloring agent. Often brands which use PPD have higher concentrations of this ingredient in the darker colors in their range as it performs well in locking in the darker colors.

PPD exposure can lead to allergic reactions. Some people are inherently allergic to PPD and others develop an allergy to PPD after repeated exposure to PPD. Hairdressers in particular are at risk of developing PPD allergies if they are in regular contact with hair color which contains PPD.

Exposure to PPD can result in a contact dermatitis reaction, which can be very uncomfortable and unpleasant.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction to PPD exposure include:

• Contact dermatitis; inflamed, red, itchy, swollen skin in areas which were in contact with the hair dye such as your neck, ears, forehead, scalp and extending to your eyes and face
• The skin exposed to the PPD may become red, swollen, blistered, dry, thickened, cracked, inflamed and itchy. You may feel a burning or stinging sensation.
• In case of a severe allergic reaction the symptoms of anaphylaxis may be present, which include:
  • Itchy skin or a raise, red skin rash,
  • Swollen eyes, lips, hands and feet – the eyelids can swell so much that the eyes close
  • Felling lightheaded or faint
  • Swelling of the mouth, throat or tongue which can cause breathing and swallowing difficulties,
  • Wheezing
  • Tummy pain, nausea and vomiting
  • Collapsing and becoming unconscious

If you have ever experienced an allergic reaction to hair color which contains PPD, then you may have an allergy to that ingredient. You should avoid PPD exposure in future and look for hair color products which are PPD free.

PPD free products, such as The Shade’s color range, usually use a substitute ingredient which has a much lower allergic reaction rate, called Toluene-2,5 Diamine Sulfate (TDS).

Hair dyes using TDS (or PTDS) are tolerated by many people with PPD allergies and are a good alternative for people who are looking to avoid PPD exposure. Patch testing is recommended prior to use.

I was hoping for a better color experience than regular boxed color and…I got it! No tingling or itchiness, no horrible smell, and a really natural color result and lovely hair condition. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a better home color experience!

R. Higgins

I have never been more happy with my hair color. The process was simple, even with long, thick hair. My color is a perfect match to the one I was using previously. My hair feels fabulous and healthy and the best part, no red skin, itching, Or allergies!!

S. Edwards

This is the best! I apparently am now allergic to regular hair color (I didnt used to be but I colored more often to cover grays and developed an allergy to regular color), so now i can finally color my hair without days of itchiness and red blotches on my face and neck. I have the exact same color I have used for years, but a better coloring technique and my color is brighter, and very soft.

Tamara J.

Love my gorgeous color and so happy that I can use it! I have allergies to regular hair color but this color didnt give me any itchiness or reaction at all and I love the color result! Hair feels really lovely too and got a few compliments already, so I’m very happy! Thank you!

S. Ashwood