Can I dye my hair when I have alopecia?

The latest medical advice received by Alopecia UK suggests that if hair dye solutions are applied to the scalp, the supporting literature suggests that dye might penetrate into the upper part of the hair follicle. This is unlikely to be relevant in alopecia areata as we are not aware of any evidence that hair dye affects alopecia areata, or is involved in its causation. Theoretically, it may be more important in diseases that affect the upper follicle, notably scarring alopecias, but we do not know this for sure. 

Dyeing hair can cause hair loss if the hair shaft is weakened with prolonged treatments (most commonly damage occurs when taking hair from a very dark colour to a very light colour).

Some people with alopecia choose to colour their hair and find a change in hair colour can help boost confidence and even help to make the hair loss less noticeable. If choosing to colour your hair, always carry out the sensitivity patch tests when using home dye products even if you have used the product before (skin sensitivity can change with alopecia).

For best results, consider a salon treatment.