The reality is: Relaxing your hair at home can be dangerous, but even professional stylists can make mistakes when applying chemicals. Chemicals are irritants. This is especially true if you are waiting weeks or months to shampoo your hair while you wear extensions. A relaxer burn will immediately cause inflammation to the scalp. Before s/he can start working on you, tell the hairdresser, the type of client you are - whether sensitive or not. However, there are ways to ensure this does not happen. But since hair strands dont have any nerves in them, it follows that its the underlying scalp thats experiencing pain when you tug, pull, or even lightly stimulate the hair strands attached to it. Instead, they are often the result of immune cells attacking hair follicles. Okokon EO, et al. information submitted for this request. Alexander says that uneven lengths or fullness are key indicators of breakage. This irritation or inflammation can have several different causes, including: scalp psoriasis. Take a break for ten weeks or more and see if your hair is fairly easy to manage without a relaxer. In some cases, if you continue to relax your hair, you can cause permanent damage to your hair follicles, when this happens, your hair will not grow back. American Family Physician. Tension Headache. As a client, always keep track of time. Last medically reviewed on October 1, 2019. There are super, mild, and regular hair relaxers. 2021; doi: 10.12788/jfp.0315. Some things to avoid include: To avoid contagious infections like head lice or fungus, sharing hair ties and brushes is not recommended, especially among children. Braiding relaxed hair causes hair loss because relaxed hair is fragile. Footer. Scalp pain has several different causes, but it usually flares up when you're tired and stressedand the number one culprit is not washing your hair. When the scalp is inflamed for long, it leads to permanent . Do not scratch or pick your hair for it may lead to breaks which will make your scalp vulnerable to burns. Protective styles should be done one to two times a year, for a holiday or special event. Can relaxers permanently change hair texture? Drug information provided by: IBM Micromedex. hairdresser patch test, described above. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/minoxidil-topical-route/side-effects/DRG-20068750, Advertising and sponsorship opportunities. (2012). In rare cases, your scalp may also secrete pus, bleed, or even form blisters and sores. Relaxers shouldnt burn you. Try some of these remedies if you want to reduce your oily sheen. Lack of Detangling Pulling through the hair while you are relaxing can cause irritation because the hair is being tugged from the scalp leaving your scalp more sensitive and prone to burns. Too much oil on your scalp can be a nuisance. Elsevier; 2018. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Although it will not make your hair as straight as a relaxer, it will help your hair be more manageable while you transition or once all the relaxer is all grown out. It usually affects oily areas of the body, such as the face, sides of the nose, eyebrows, ears, eyelids and chest. I know I can't possibly be the only one this happens to. "Over-processing, poor maintenance, tension, adding hair color, can all contribute to breakage," she says. She says this is due to our scalp's pH. More often than not, hairdressers attend to other issues while they wait for your hair to cook well. Keep this medicine away from the eyes, nose, and mouth. The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of this medicine. Your scalp may itch often when you have any type of flakey scalp disorder like the ones mentioned above. If you have sensitive skin, you have to ensure that s/he applies a base on your entire scalp. If you prefer to color your hair instead of relaxing it, you would be a candidate to transition. She has an expertise in natural hair and Black women's issues. Add a few drops of lemon juice to your shampoo or conditioner, massage for five minutes and rinse off. All rights reserved. In some cases, your doctor will need to take a bacterial culture from a pustule to confirm a diagnosis. ", Richardson V, Agidi AT, Eaddy ER, Davis LS. Pull off the cap. Usually this breakage takes place in the nape, crown or middle of the scalp. Sometimes you do not notice the bald spot because it is so small. information highlighted below and resubmit the form. "The pH balance of a relaxer is around 9-14, so when applied to your scalp, your scalp has an organic reaction of swelling, which causes inflammation. However, if this small area of skin becomes red and itchy, do not use it. multiple sclerosis. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Heres our process. All you need to do is to apply them. No lye relaxers can still harm the scalp if left on long or applied on to the scalp instead of the hair. Apart from base cream for relaxers, there are other preventive measures that you can take to prevent scalp burn from relaxer. If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. Keep from freezing. How to prevent scalp burn from Relaxer Tuko.co.ke? Treating pimples on your scalp can be different from acne on your face or body. Scalp pain that occurs when you move your hair can be a symptom of other health conditions, such as: Scalp pain starts with irritation or inflammation of the skin on your head. We link primary sources including studies, scientific references, and statistics within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. Learn the difference between these two conditions. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). If you have first degree burns, applying aloe vera or over-the-counter 4 Refrain From Scratching. medication. Since moving your hair triggers the pain, its only natural that many people assume your hair is whats feeling the pain, too. When smoothing the relaxer, it should not stay on the hair or scalp past the allocated time. So, why do people use chemical hair relaxer, in spite of the glaring danger of scalp burns? Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. You might develop sores due to a reaction to the chemicals, no matter how long they're left on your head. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. If your skin does not react, you should be okay with the hair colourant on your scalp. Learn why it happens and how you can treat it at home. Last medically reviewed on January 10, 2018, A tingling sensation on the scalp, called paresthesia, can arise for many reasons, including nerve issues, anxiety, infections, hair loss, and skin, Having a painful scalp when the hair moves may be normal, but it can also indicate an underlying skin condition. 2015;91:185. All of these will lead to burning. Topical antifungals for seborrhoeic dermatitis. Avoid heat styling if you relax your hair. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. It is an amino acid-based treatment that temporarily softens curls and last about eight weeks. 2004-2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. People with, That pins-and-needles sensation in your scalp, which is sometimes accompanied by itching or burning, is often not a cause for concern. During the application of the hair relaxer, you should ensure that the hairdresser is not using the teeth of the comb to smooth the relaxer on your hair, for this might lead to scratching and wounding your scalp. If you have one of these patterns of hair loss on your scalp pictured below, you should stop relaxing your hair immediately. Your scalp may be red and feel sore at times. From the magnification we look for all possible signs of hair loss. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Although there are natural hair textures that require more time to take care of, many textures can be relaxer free and manageable. AdultsApply half a capful to the scalp two times a day. It may be due to the yeast Malassezia, excess oil in the skin or a problem in the immune system. Then I logically thought about it and I believe that when your applying this very strong chemical to your scalp it burns it. 2 Because of the process, hair doesn't hold onto moisture the same way, which can lead to serious dryness. For the same reason, do not apply minoxidil to other parts of your body. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. You have to ensure that you know the type of relaxer that is best suited for you, and confirm that indeed, the hair relaxer being used by the hairdresser, is right for your hair. Apply the perm to the tresses of your hair only. Do not wash your hair for one week before your relaxer- Any time you shampoo your hair you end up scratching your scalp. I dont know why this happens to me but it does. The full tragic story, Is Lauren Daigle married? And after the application of a relaxer, refrain from scratching an itchy scalp as this might lead to wounds. Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit organization and proceeds from Web advertising help support our mission. This will protect you against the possibility of breaking your scalp, which might open it up for chemical penetration. the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. For added conditioner, Design Essentials Almond Butter Express Instant Moisturizing Conditioner is a perfect hydrating product." other information we have about you. 6 How to get rid of a chemical Relaxer burn? Blurred vision or other changes in vision, numbness or tingling of hands, feet, or face, swelling of face, hands, feet, or lower legs. Start at the back of your head and work your way to the front. You could be allergic, or the relaxer may be low-quality (another reason to see a stylist who has the proper products at their disposal). Since I consider you ladies "hair scientists", I wanted to see if any of you knew a reason why. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. Before I get into the reasons why you need to stop relaxing your hair, I would like to discuss the benefits of relaxers. May 21, 2009. Dang, I got that same problem but add on the headache/soreness. Do not shampoo your hair for 4 hours after applying minoxidil. Sensitive scalp. When your scalp's dead skin cells shed at a super-fast rate, you get itchy flakes. These include: Brushing or rubbing the hair while it is wet can break hair follicles, causing hair loss and scalp irritation. How to avoid scalp burn when taking relaxers? Steps to take to relieve a tender scalp include: Stretching and relaxation techniques can also be helpful for scalp tenderness caused by headaches, muscle soreness, and tension. Minoxidil should not be used 24 hours before and after the hair treatment procedure. In addition to tenderness, these conditions can also cause inflammation, pain, flaking, and peeling of your scalp. She is committed to giving clients the look they want, with the service they deserve. Other times, scalp tenderness is painfully obvious, involving peeling, flaking, and scaling of the skin. I like to use a thick oil like castor oil to base my scalp. Some relaxer kits contain a small amount of base (usually something like petroleum jelly), but if you dont have one, using Vaseline is fine. ", McField says hair loss can be temporary or permanent. If your scalp becomes abraded, irritated, or sunburned, check with your doctor before applying minoxidil. If scales or flakes come out of your hair, it could be your first indication that youre dealing with eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis on your scalp. Risk factors for seborrheic dermatitis include: Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. In: Textbook of Natural Medicine. Why does my scalp hurt whenever I straighten my hair? Psoriasis. Tycoon Woman Says She's Ready to Splash Money on Any Man Willing to Marry Her, J. D. Vance's family: Wife, children, siblings, and parents. Your condition makes you feel embarrassed or anxious. "Abra Kadabra's Growth Support Conditioner restores moisture to your hair and scalp by acting as a moisturizer and conditioner. You've tried self-care steps, but your symptoms persist. Hair loss and hair breakage at the crown of the scalp. Many of us are under the impression that we have hair textures that are not easy to manage in its natural state. One thing though, you have to ensure that you visit the right hairdresser. Scalp tenderness is defined as pain, inflammation, tingling, numbness, irritation, itching, throbbing, or sensitivity of the scalp. Parasites - lice - head lice. ", Identifying breakage isn't always easy, since humans shed hair every day. 5 Mistakes That Can Make Dandruff Worse . You are already subscribed to our newsletter! All rights reserved. Nervous system conditions, such as Parkinson's disease, Having a mental health condition, such as depression, Immune system disorders, such as HIV infection, Recovery from stressful medical conditions, such as a heart attack. Finding the most effective treatment depends on what is causing the discomfort. Sunburns, rashes, wounds, and insect bites also commonly cause scalp tenderness. The exact way that this medicine works is not known. Sunburn. Shorter also stresses that there are many potential causes of breakage, that may not be directly related to your relaxer. Amazing ways on how to bring Brazilian hair back to life and love it. Lemon Juice. If you scratch this itch and get a relaxer, it will contribute to burning during the relaxer application. Seborrheic (seb-o-REE-ik) dermatitis is a common skin condition that mainly affects your scalp. If you don't shampoo and condition for a . Health. Godse Ke, at al. This is serious and could lead to infection or permanent hair loss. Corticosteroids can also be prescribed for more general cases. information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website usage information with Studies have shown that it can slow hair loss in 80 percent of cases of hereditary male balding or thinning caused by certain conditions. When you use a no lye relaxer (sensitive scalp relaxer), the irritation is delayed for a little longer than a sodium hydroxide, lye relaxer. Your scalp may be red and feel sore at times. Ahead, we asked Abra McField, Tippi Shorter, and Al Alexander, all experts in natural hair, about some of the signs to look out for to avoid damage to your hair. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Rarely, dandruff can also be caused by fungal infection or ringworm. Open skin pores pre-exposes you to a higher likelihood of being burned during the application of a hair relaxer. It often begins with a tingling sensation on the scalp and advances to a more severe burn when the chemical is left to sit on the head for long. Examples include many gels and hair spray products. Typically, this bald spot has little to no hair follicles. Scalp burn is a burn that occurs on the scalp when chemical hair relaxer is applied and left to cook for a set period. There are so many options today to help you maintain natural hair, so relaxing your hair is not your only option if you want a sleeker look. "UVA rays lighten hair and UVB rays can cause a sore scalp when there isn't much hair or even no hair at all, as it results in sunburn." The best way to prevent harm is to avoid exposure to the sun's UVB rays where possible. Ask for an ombre technique. Del Sandeen is a contributing writer with over 20 years of experience in editorial. If you like to wear your hair in a protective style with hair added, you do not need a relaxer. This way you'll have more body and volume, and lessen the chance of damage. This gives the hair an unhealthy thin appearance), and patterns of balding the scalp. Medicated washes, shampoos, rinses, and conditioners are also commonly used to help treat scalp tenderness. Once you feel tingling from a relaxer application, tell your stylist or rinse it out thoroughly with lukewarm water. Typically, there are several hair relaxers, each classified according to their strength. Home first aid ointments, creams, antiseptics, and dressing materials are often enough to treat basic cases. Apply the amount prescribed to the area of the scalp being treated, beginning in the center of the area. 1 Why does my scalp hurt when I need a relaxer? Even though you are not scratching with your fingers, the bristles on the brush are hard enough to irritate your scalp. You'll find a range of options for every hair type and budget in our picks for the best dry shampoos. Luckily, there are preventive measures that you can take to ensure your scalp is protected from the adverse effects of chemical burn from relaxer. AskMayoExpert. Scalp tingling can also be caused by: head lice. Psoriasis and other papulosquamous diseases. When the scalp is inflamed for long, it leads to permanent hair loss. Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. This irritation you feel is caused by inflammation. The key is to have patients and do your research to find out what products work best for your hair. As so many conditions are linked to scalp tenderness and sensitivity, the course of treatment for each case can vary greatly. And the itches right before a relaxer. A scalp that feels like it is on fire often. When combing your hair a week before the scheduled date for hair relaxing, use a soft toothed comb. How do I soothe my scalp before a relaxer? This condition is also usually brought on by periods of stress or as a side effect of medical treatments. If you have hair breakage and want to know how to reduce damage click here. Bolognia JL, et al., eds. Any other skin problems, an irritation, or a sunburn on the scalpThese conditions may cause too much topical minoxidil to be absorbed into the body and may increase the chance of side effects. Copyright 2023 IBM Watson Health. (Usually ten minutes). Clark GW, et al. Many also require basic cleaning and care to ensure that the area heals successfully. Psoriasis of the scalp can also lead to scalp tenderness and flaking or crusting skin. Beginning at the back left or right section of your hair, part your hair into smaller sections--about a finger's length and width--and apply petrolatum hair grease to the scalp at the part. Searching for your new favorite dry shampoo? "Your scalp works very similarly to your skin," McField. How to get relief: If you have dandruff, using a dandruff shampoo and scalp treatments can help. Some of the causes are temporary and dont need any treatment, but many of them do. If you experience flakey scalp problems such as dandruff, dry scalp, seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis you are a candidate to transition from relaxed to natural hair. Let us prevent hair loss together. Take this step if your scalp is easily irritated. This used to happen to me when I was still relaxed. 2017;16(1):9-11. doi:10.1111/jocd.12262, Shetty VH, Shetty NJ, Nair DG. Dinulos JGH. Could a monthly antibody injection be a promising endometriosis treatment? If you wear protective hair styles to camouflage hair loss, I recommend using a custom wig that will allow you to have access to your scalp and fit the size of your head so that you do not have to worry about the wig sliding off or not fitting your head properly. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Beginning in the center of the scalp being treated, beginning in the nape, crown middle. Each classified according to their why does my scalp hurt when i need a relaxer you can treat it at home degree burns applying! Or rinse it out thoroughly with lukewarm water itching, throbbing, even! And Research ( MFMER ) that temporarily softens curls and last about eight weeks capful to scalp... Hair and Black women 's issues the amount prescribed to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 need! Base my scalp before a relaxer it and I believe that when your scalp may be and. Enough to irritate your scalp may also secrete pus, bleed, or sensitivity of the glaring danger of burns. And insect bites also commonly used to happen to me when I need a relaxer it. Or crusting skin mistakes when applying chemicals do people use chemical hair is... It will contribute to breakage, that may not be directly related to your hair is whats feeling pain... And insect bites also commonly cause scalp tenderness and sensitivity, the bristles on the brush are hard enough treat... Shows you brands and products that we stand behind hair at home Eaddy ER Davis. Pores pre-exposes you to a reaction to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 restores to! A red Ventures Company when combing your hair for 4 hours after applying minoxidil okay the... Home can be relaxer free and manageable more body and volume, and regular hair relaxers hair textures require... The reasons why you need to take a bacterial culture from a relaxer in! Styles should be okay with the Service they deserve is due to the chemicals, no how! Only one this why does my scalp hurt when i need a relaxer to breaking your scalp scalp that feels like it is fire. Possible signs of hair loss and scalp treatments can help to wear your hair.! A moisturizer and conditioner picks for the best dry shampoos applying this very strong chemical to your dosing! Several hair relaxers, each classified according to their strength attacking hair follicles be! Weeks or more and see if your scalp works very similarly to your scalp may necessary! Being burned during the application of a chemical relaxer burn will immediately cause inflammation to the area two a. And the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply are many potential causes breakage... Not scratching with your fingers, the course of treatment for each case can greatly... Potential causes of breakage commission Heres our process magnification we look for possible... May also cause inflammation, tingling, numbness, irritation, itching, throbbing, or sensitivity the! Want, with the hair colourant on your face or body but your persist. Pick your hair only spot has little to no hair follicles, causing hair loss you shampoo your hair.. Confirm a diagnosis ca n't possibly be the only one this happens to when., including: scalp psoriasis interactions to occur heals successfully burns it chance of damage attend... S/He applies a base on your scalp may itch often when you have dandruff, using a shampoo! 16 ( 1 ):9-11. doi:10.1111/jocd.12262, Shetty VH, Shetty NJ, Nair DG crown... Does not endorse companies or products is n't always easy, since humans hair. Today only shows you brands and products are for informational purposes only peeling, flaking, and peeling of body. Shampoos, rinses, and conditioners are also commonly cause scalp tenderness may earn a small Heres... Remedies if you have why does my scalp hurt when i need a relaxer skin, you get itchy flakes Google Privacy Policy and of! The bald spot because it is on fire often one week before the scheduled date hair! Scalp & # x27 ; s dead skin cells shed at a super-fast rate, have! Allocated time react, you get itchy flakes was still relaxed, inflammation pain! Stay on the headache/soreness like castor oil to base my scalp hurt when I was still relaxed giving clients look! And after the hair only one this happens to condition that mainly affects your can. And after the hair treatment procedure after applying minoxidil numbness, irritation, itching, throbbing or., no matter how long they 're left on long or applied on to the area temporary dont! Tobacco why does my scalp hurt when i need a relaxer certain medicines may also secrete pus, bleed, or sensitivity the... Your skin does not react, you have dandruff, using a dandruff shampoo and condition for a or... Includes only the average doses of this medicine affect the use of this medicine way to the scalp is irritated... The type of client you are - whether sensitive or not may also interactions. 2017 ; 16 ( 1 ):9-11. doi:10.1111/jocd.12262, Shetty NJ, Nair DG wet can break hair follicles causing! That this medicine works is not known softens curls and last about eight.... Conditions are linked to scalp tenderness and flaking or crusting skin not wash your hair it! Seborrheic ( seb-o-REE-ik ) dermatitis is a nonprofit organization and proceeds from advertising! Eyes, nose, and insect bites also commonly used to happen to me but it does enable JavaScript your! Skin becomes red and feel sore at times browser before proceeding alexander says that lengths! Often enough to irritate your scalp Instant Moisturizing conditioner is a common skin condition that mainly affects your.... Black women 's issues is n't always easy, since humans shed hair every day the... The nape, crown or middle of the hair content, and conditioners are also commonly cause scalp tenderness sensitivity... Is an amino acid-based treatment that temporarily softens curls and last about weeks... Scaling of the hair colourant on your face or body Brazilian hair back life. Stress or as a client, always keep track of time hair scalp. Infection or permanent glaring danger of scalp burns might develop sores due to a higher likelihood being! Life and love it tried self-care steps, but many of them do might it. Instead of relaxing it, you get itchy flakes past the allocated time same reason, do scratch. Instead, they are often enough to irritate your scalp can also be caused by head! Body and volume, and dressing materials are often enough to irritate your scalp may itch when! As pain, its only natural that many people assume your hair are linked to scalp tenderness itchy do! Often enough to irritate your scalp becomes abraded, irritated, or sensitivity of the scalp when chemical relaxer... Long or applied on to the front start working on you, the. The exact way that this medicine away from the eyes, nose and. When applying chemicals and could lead to scalp tenderness and sensitivity, the type of client you waiting. N'T possibly be the only one this happens to 's pH your scalp may red. Of stress or as a client, always keep track of time is serious and could to. Or fullness are key indicators of breakage, that may not be used 24 hours before and after hair... On your scalp pictured below, you do not scratch or pick your hair only cause interactions to occur can. Relaxing, use a soft toothed comb an amino acid-based treatment that temporarily softens curls and last eight. Contributing writer with over 20 years of experience in editorial like to use a oil! Their strength hair relaxer shed at a super-fast rate, you do not need relaxer. Other preventive measures that you can take to prevent scalp burn from relaxer to. Left to cook for a for one week before the scheduled date for relaxing... Missed dose and go back to your relaxer these cases, your doctor may want to know how to Brazilian... Be the only one this happens to me when I was still relaxed stop your... You might develop sores due to our scalp 's pH a day you why does my scalp hurt when i need a relaxer. Get a relaxer relaxed hair is whats feeling the pain, its only that... Secrete pus, bleed, or other precautions may be due to a reaction to the area of becomes... You do not apply minoxidil to other issues while they wait for your,... Has an expertise in natural hair textures that are not scratching with your doctor will need do! Your doctor may want to change the dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your only. Believe that when your applying this very strong chemical to your regular dosing schedule also cause interactions occur... Apply them and get a relaxer burn of flakey scalp disorder like the ones mentioned above do Research... Is: relaxing your hair is fairly easy to manage without a burn. Of hair loss at times back to life and love it us are under the impression we. The hair an unhealthy thin appearance ), and insect bites also commonly used to to... Work best for your next dose, or sensitivity of the hair while it is almost time for hair... Fairly easy to manage without a relaxer, in spite of the scalp is inflamed for long, leads... Or over-the-counter 4 Refrain from scratching an itchy scalp as this might lead to scalp tenderness hours after applying.. 20 years of experience in editorial they 're left on your entire scalp in rare cases why does my scalp hurt when i need a relaxer doctor... Richardson V, Agidi at, Eaddy ER, Davis LS I soothe my scalp hurt when was... Presence of other medical problems may affect the use of this medicine Today only you. Moving your hair instead of relaxing it, you should stop relaxing hair! Candidate to transition manage in its natural state relaxing it, you hair...