Are you allergic to synthetic hair but don’t want to give up wearing synthetic wigs? After all, there are quite a few benefits when choosing synthetic over natural, don’t you agree?
Don’t worry! In this blog post, we will be discussing the best alternatives for those with allergies to synthetic hair. If you’re looking for a way to keep your style without compromising your health, read on!
What is Synthetic Hair Allergy?
Much like synthetic fragrances, preservatives used in cosmetics, and certain hair-care products, people can experience an allergic reaction when exposed to synthetic hair used in wigs, extensions, and braids.
What are the Common Symptoms?
The most common symptoms you can look out for are blisters, rashes, dry skin, hives, and redness and inflammation on the nape of your neck or wherever the hair extensions are touching your skin.
Swelling of the face and airways, shortness of breath, and a drop in blood pressure may also occur in severe cases.
You should seek medical attention immediately if any experience any of these severe symptoms after getting synthetic hair extensions or using synthetic hair products.
How to Test for an Allergy
If you suspect you may have a synthetic hair allergy, you must get a proper diagnosis from your doctor. The first step in testing for an allergy is a skin test. This involves exposing a small skin patch to the allergen and observing the reaction.
If the skin reacts, it’s usually a sign of an allergy. Your doctor may also perform a patch or blood test to determine if you have an allergy.
Treatment Options
If you are experiencing an allergic reaction to synthetic hair, there are a few treatment options you can try. You can attempt to get some relief with over-the-counter antihistamines and cortisone ointment.
Still, if the rash persists or if there is blistering, you should consult your doctor for further diagnosis and treatment.
To reduce the risk of further irritation, rinse the hair for 25 minutes in a mixture of 1 part apple cider vinegar and five parts water. To pretreat your wig, soak it in 1 ½ cups apple cider vinegar or rooibos tea for 15-20 minutes. This will help to soothe any irritation and reduce the chance of an allergic reaction.
Tips to Avoid Allergies
If you are prone to allergies, it is important to take some preventive measures when dealing with synthetic hair. It is always best to conduct a patch test on your skin before using any products or installing synthetic hair extensions.
This will help you determine if you have an allergy to the hair or products used before making a purchase. Additionally, it is important to use a mild shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for synthetic hair.
This should take care of removing any residue or build-up that could irritate. Furthermore, it is best to avoid using styling products that contain harsh chemicals, as these can be irritating and cause further allergic reactions.
What are the Alternatives?
If you are allergic to synthetic hair, you don’t have to miss out on the latest trends. Fortunately, several alternatives to synthetic hair extensions can help you achieve the look you desire without compromising your health.
Human hair extensions are a great option, as they are natural and don’t irritate the scalp. In addition, you can also use sewing techniques to install extensions. Both options will provide a secure and comfortable base without the risk of an allergic reaction.
How to Care for Synthetic Hair Extensions?
If you have synthetic hair extensions and suspect you may be experiencing an allergic reaction, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk for further irritation.
To pretreat your wig, you can soak it in 1 ½ cups of apple cider vinegar or rooibos tea for 15-20 minutes; during this time, the vinegar or tea can help to remove any irritants that may have been left on the wig.
Also, washing your synthetic hair with mild, unscented shampoo can help to reduce the risk of a reaction.
What is the Best Way to Care for Synthetic Hair?
If you have already installed your synthetic hair, it is important to take the time to care for it properly:
- Using sulfate-free, hypoallergenic shampoo and conditioner are recommended to help manage the scalp’s natural circulation.
- To reduce the risk of a reaction, you can rinse the hair for 25 minutes in a mixture of one part apple cider vinegar and five parts water. This will help to remove any residue or build-up that could be irritating.
- If you are using glue or adhesive for your hair extensions, make sure that you are using a formaldehyde-free product and taking the necessary steps to remove it correctly.
Can You Have Braids if you are Allergic to Synthetic Hair?
The answer is complex for those who have an allergy to synthetic hair. While it is possible to have braids if you are allergic to synthetic hair, it is important to take necessary precautions and seek professional advice before attempting any installation.
To reduce the likelihood of an allergic reaction, it is best to use natural hair extensions free of chemical or synthetic materials. It is also important to ensure that the braiding salon uses sterilized implements and quality products to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction.
Properly caring for synthetic hair extensions can help reduce the chances of developing an allergy. Regularly cleaning, conditioning, and moisturizing the hair can help ensure that it remains healthy and free from any irritants.