Allergic Reactions To Braiding Hair

Over my time working in a salon, we would see instances of persons

having allergic reactions to braiding hair.  However, this happened with clients who often had skin issues.  Nowadays, the amount of people reporting this problem has grown!

I have had clients who braided their hair for years, but in the last year, they reported

severe itching and/or rashes whenever it was done.  I do not like my clients having to remove their hair early so I give the following solution before appointments:

• After buying the hair, remove the hair bundles, leaving them tied as from the package.
• Make a solution of vinegar and soap in a bucket.  
• Dip and swirl them around, leaving them to soak for at least 20 minutes.
• Rinse in clean water – two times.
• Hang to dry thoroughly.

If there is a severe reaction:

• Remove the hair then wash and clean actual hair and skin.
• For rashes/itching, seek the help of a health care professional.

These days, many clients who use braiding hair and have allergic reactions to braiding hair, come with the hair already washed and dried.  Makes my life so much easier knowing they will be able to keep their braid extensions in longer.

By Paula Barker, Silkie Locks Hair Design

Books:  “Talking Hair”, “Filling My Head” & “Dreadlocks – A Hairstylist’s Manifest”.