Many individuals rely on a hairspray to keep their hair in place. It is widely used in the fashion industry as well as by average individuals who want to keep their appearance neat and polished. On the other hand, some individuals who use hairsprays might end up with a red-colored rash on the forehead every time the product is used. This might indicate an allergic reaction to one of the components present in hairspray. With this in mind, it is vital to determine if the reaction is truly an actual allergy to help the individual choose the right product to use.
Close look on hairsprays
Different chemicals are used in creating cosmetics. From make-up to hairspray products, cosmetics contain perfumes or other chemicals that might be harsh irritants to the skin and trigger an allergic reaction.
A reaction to hairspray typically results to reddening of the skin or contact dermatitis. Take note that this reaction occurs once the skin becomes inflamed and might appear as a red-colored, itchy rash that causes discomfort. Even if the individual avoids using a particular brand, this rash can persist for 2-4 weeks.
Am I allergic to hairspray?
Hairspray allergy does not always manifest on the areas where the product was applied. In most cases, the reactions typically appear as a rash on the eyelids instead. The reason for this is that the hairspray causes the cells in the body responsible for fighting allergies to release histamine. The histamine causes swelling and secretion of mucus in the eyes, nose and throat.
In such cases, the individual might think about products that he/she used before the rashes erupted. If the individual just sprayed on hairspray and a rash develops on the eyes or the nose starts to itch, these are indications of hairspray allergy.
Labelling
There are certain ingredients and preservatives that are linked with the increasing cases of allergic reactions in cosmetics. Before buying a hairspray, it is important to check the label for any of the following ingredients that can be irritating:
- parabens
- formaldehyde
- imidazolidinyl urea
- DMDM hydantoin
- Quaternium-15
- methylchloroisothiazolinone
- phenoxyethanol
In addition, highly fragranced hairsprays are more likely to trigger a reaction among highly sensitive individuals.
Avoidance
If an individual experiences an allergic reaction to a particular hairspray, he/she must avoid that brand in order to prevent future allergic reactions. Avoid spraying hairspray while close to children or infants since their skin is highly susceptible to skin reactions due to the strong ingredients.
Treatment
Once an individual experiences an allergic reaction to a particular hairspray, you have to apply hydrocortisone cream over the affected area. This cream works by reducing the itchiness and redness linked with the reaction.
Another option is to apply a cool, moist compress over the skin to minimize the itchiness or burning sensation. The individual should avoid scratching the area since this will only worsen the skin issues. If the itchiness is severe, you can provide the individual with an over-the-counter antihistamine that contains diphenhydramine.