How to Test for Allergic Reactions to Dye

Conducting a small, controlled test on yourself for an allergic reaction to dye prior to use is an easy way to avoid a full-scale reaction that could end up in the hospital. The test is so easy you can do it yourself. The most common type of dye people come into regular contact with is hair dye, which includes para-phenylenediamine, or PPD. PPD creates permanent color through the process of oxidization when exposed to a color developer. This substance and substances significantly similar in chemical composition are found in many other commonly used products, such as ball point pen ink and gasoline. An allergy to PPD may mean you also have reactions to some or all of these other products. Knowing this ahead of time allows you to avoid accidental contact or at least lets you know to use these products with care.

Instructions

• 1

  Mix a small amount of the hair dye with the color developer. The PPD won't begin to oxidize without contact with the developer so you must use them together to test for an allergic reaction.

• 2

  Rub a small amount of the oxidized dye behind your ear or on the inner bend of your elbow.

• 3

  Leave the test spot uncovered for 24 to 48 hours. Do not expose it to water during this time.

• 4

  Check for any immediate reaction. If the test site reacts immediately, it is considered to be "irritant contact dermatitis" and thus nonallergic.

• 5

  Evaluate the site after 24 to 48 hours. If there is no redness, swelling, itching, weeping or scaling then you are very unlikely to be allergic to the dye. However, if you do experience any of these symptoms you are allergic and cannot use hair dye or any product that contains PPD.

• 6

  Pay attention to any signs of an allergic reaction to other products you may react to if you demonstrated an allergic reaction to PPD. Look out for para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), which is used in sunscreen; azo dyes, which are used in varying quantity in semi-permanent and temporary hair dyes; the ink in ballpoint pens; gasoline and diesel oil; as a colorant in foods and medications; benzocaine and procaine, which are used in anaesthetics; and sulfonamides, sulfones or sulfa, which are used in various medications.