Pigmentary alterations produced by hair dyes on the face and neck have not received sufficient attention.

The goal of a recent study published in the Indian Dermatology Online Journal was to investigate the pigmentary alterations on the face and neck in hair dye users, and identify possible risk factors associated with the face and neck hyperpigmentation.

This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted on consecutive hair dye users. The study entailed detailed history taking and a clinical examinationto record the pigmentary alterations. Patterns, areas affected, the intensity of hyperpigmentation, percentage of the area involved and risk factors were noted.

Overall, 120 patients were recruited, of which 98.3% had hyperpigmentation over face and/or neck – 13.3%barely perceivable; 33.3% mild; 36.7% moderate; and 15% severe pigmentation. The lateral forehead (88.3%), the helix of the ear (88.3%), central forehead (80.8%), and zygomatic area (76.7%) were the most frequently affected. Additionally, 11.7% of the patients had depigmented macules on the scalp and/or lips.

The findings suggested that pigmentary alterations, particularly hyperpigmentation over the upper face and ears are common with the use of hair dyes. The skin type may play a role in the intensity of hyperpigmentation.

Source: Indian Dermatology Online Journal.2020 Sep 19;11(5):760-765. doi:10.4103/idoj.IDOJ_313_19.