How is Your Regular Hair Dye Causing Hair to Fall Out?

Hair colouring has become a regular part of beauty routines for millions, whether to cover greys, try trendy shades, or enhance natural colour. But many people notice a worrying side effect: hair fall after colouring. If your hair seems thinner or weaker after dyeing, it’s not your imagination. Your regular chemical hair dye might be the culprit.

In this guide, we’ll explore how conventional hair dyes damage your hair and scalp, why they can trigger excessive shedding, and what natural alternatives can help you keep your colour without compromising hair health.

Why Does Hair Fall After Hair Colouring?

Hair fall after hair dyeing is not uncommon, especially when using chemical-based colours. Here’s why it happens:

• Chemical Damage to Hair Shaft: Common dyes use ammonia or similar agents to open the cuticle, allowing pigment to penetrate. This weakens the hair shaft, making it brittle and prone to breakage.

• Scalp Irritation and Inflammation: Ingredients like PPD (p-phenylenediamine), resorcinol, and peroxide can irritate the scalp. An inflamed scalp environment weakens the roots, leading to hair loss.

• Loss of Natural Oils: Harsh chemicals strip the scalp’s protective oils, leaving it dry and more prone to damage.

• Allergic Reactions: Many hair fall cases are linked to allergic responses to synthetic colour pigments, which can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle.

• Repeated Colouring Cycles: Frequent use of permanent hair dyes puts hair through repeated alkaline and oxidative stress, accelerating shedding.

Common Chemicals in Regular Hair Dyes That Harm Hair

Most commercial hair colours contain:

• Ammonia - Opens cuticle aggressively, causing moisture loss

• PPD - A known allergen that can cause scalp inflammation and itching

• Hydrogen Peroxide - Oxidises natural pigment but damages protein bonds

• Resorcinol - Disrupts scalp microbiome and can cause dermatitis

• Synthetic Fragrances & Preservatives - Can further irritate the scalp

These ingredients are particularly harmful if you already have sensitive skin, a dry scalp, or fine hair.

Signs Your Hair Dye is Causing Hair Fall

If you notice these symptoms after colouring, your hair dye may be the cause:

• Unusual hair shedding within 1-2 weeks post-dye

• Breakage while combing or washing

• Itchy, red, or flaky scalp

• Hair feels dry, coarse, or straw-like

• Slow regrowth and reduced hair density

Hair Fall After Hair Dye - Can It Be Reversed?

Yes, in most cases, hair fall due to hair colour can be reduced by switching to gentler options and adopting a scalp and hair recovery routine:

1. Switch to Herbal Hair Colours

Opt for herbal hair colour that uses plant-based pigments and avoids ammonia, PPD, and harsh peroxides. These colours:

• Maintain a near-neutral pH, preventing cuticle damage

• Nourish hair with natural oils during colouring

• Keep scalp barrier intact

• Offer long-lasting colour without dryness

2. Nourish Your Scalp With Oils

Weekly oil massages using coconut oil, almond oil, or argan oil can repair cuticle damage and restore lost moisture.

3. Use a Herbal Shampoo and Conditioner

A herbal shampoo keeps your scalp clean without stripping oils, while a herbal conditioner adds back softness and shine.

4. Add Hair Masks to Your Routine

Herbal or DIY masks with Aloe Vera, Bhringraj, Amla, and Hibiscus can strengthen roots and improve hair elasticity.

5. Avoid Frequent Dyeing

Give your hair 6–8 weeks between colour sessions to allow recovery.

How Herbal Hair Colours Are Different

Unlike regular dyes that depend on harsh alkaline and oxidative agents, herbal-based hair colours use naturally derived pigments and botanical oils to provide:

• Cuticle-friendly penetration - Colour deposits without excessive swelling of the hair shaft

• Scalp-safe formulation - No allergens like PPD or strong peroxides

• Moisture retention - Enriched with oils and herbs to condition during colouring

• Gentle pH balance - Minimises irritation and protects the scalp’s natural barrier

This makes them suitable for all hair types, including colour-treated, damaged, or sensitive scalps.

Preventing Hair Fall After Hair Colouring - Do’s and Don’ts

Do:

• Use a herbal hair mask weekly

• Switch to a sulfate-free herbal shampoo

• Deep condition after every wash

• Protect hair from UV exposure and pollution

Don’t:

• Colour more often than necessary

• Leave dye on for longer than the instructions specify

• Use hot water when rinsing the colour

• Ignore scalp irritation, seek gentler alternatives immediately

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Why does hair fall after colouring?

Most chemical dyes contain ammonia, PPD, and peroxides that weaken the hair shaft and irritate the scalp.

Q2. Can I prevent hair fall if I still want to colour my hair?

Yes, by using herbal hair colours that avoid harsh chemicals and by maintaining a nourishing aftercare routine.

Q3. How long does hair fall last after dyeing?

If caused by irritation or dryness, it may last 1–2 weeks, but prolonged shedding may require a change in products and care.

Q4. Are herbal hair colours as effective as chemical dyes?

Yes, they can provide vibrant, long-lasting colour while keeping hair health intact, though they may not lighten hair as much as chemical bleaches.

Q5. What should I do immediately after noticing hair fall post-colouring?

Stop using chemical dyes, switch to herbal alternatives, and start a hydration and scalp repair routine.

Q6. Is hair fall from hair dye permanent?

In most cases, no. Hair usually recovers with the right care and gentler colouring choices.

Final Thoughts

Hair fall after hair dye is a common yet preventable issue. The chemicals in conventional dyes are often too harsh for regular use, damaging your scalp and hair in ways that lead to shedding.

By switching to herbal hair colours and adopting a nourishing aftercare routine with herbal shampoos & conditioners, and oil treatments, you can enjoy vibrant, long-lasting colour without losing your hair’s natural strength and shine.