Q: I am a 44-year-old female. I have been using hair dyes for the past few years without any problem. But since the last 2-3 applications, I have developed severe itching on the scalp along with some papular rashes. I took some antihistamines and I am OK now. What dye can I apply in future, if at all? Please advise.

A:You are having allergic contact dermatitis due to hair dyes. It will cause itching and burning sensation. There will be skin lesions vesicles and papules, if neglected there will be secondary infection. Antihistamines like loratadine once a day can be used. Steroid lotions like Betamethasone can be used twice a day for one week and once a day for one week. In future, you better avoid using hair dyes. You can opt to colour your hairs. Good quality colourings are available. However, risk of allergic contact dermatitis will be less.