I have lupus, can I use hair dye or perming solutions?


In general these are safe. Some years ago there was a controversial research paper that suggested that hair dyes caused lupus. However, subsequent studies have not confirmed this. Some patients with both discoid and SLE may be allergic to dyes and chemicals and should be aware of a possible reaction.

If you have active discoid lesions on your scalp, or you are suffering from hair loss as a result of lupus, I would be cautious about using hair dyes. Chemicals in the dye can act as irritants, (although nothing has been proven to link them with lupus), further damaging your hair follicles. Your hairdresser may be able to advise on what product may be safe for you to use.