No, bleaching your hair is not supposed to burn. While a slight tingling or itching sensation might be experienced by some, a burning sensation indicates a problem.
Understanding the Burning Sensation
Bleaching involves strong chemicals that can irritate the scalp if not applied correctly or left on for too long. The burning sensation is a sign of chemical irritation or even a chemical burn. This is not a normal part of the process.
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Causes of Burning:
- Prolonged exposure: Leaving bleach on the scalp for longer than recommended can cause burning.
- High concentration bleach: Using a bleach that's too strong for your hair type can lead to irritation.
- Sensitive scalp: Individuals with sensitive skin are more prone to experiencing burning.
- Improper application: Uneven application or getting bleach on the scalp can cause irritation.
- Allergic reaction: In rare cases, an allergic reaction to the bleach can cause burning.
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What to do if your scalp burns:
- Rinse immediately: Thoroughly rinse the bleach off your scalp if you experience a burning sensation.
- Cool compress: Apply a cool compress to soothe the irritated area.
- Consult a professional: If the burning is severe or persists, seek medical attention.
Several sources corroborate this: One source states that bleaching products can cause burns if left on the scalp for too long, emphasizing the importance of thorough rinsing. [^1] Other sources mention that while a slight tingling or itching is sometimes experienced, a burning sensation is a sign of distress and a problem with the application or product. [^2, ^3, ^4, ^5, ^6, ^7, ^8, ^9, ^10, ^11] One individual even reported a second-degree chemical burn from bleach on their scalp. ^8
[^1]: Bleaching products may cause burns if they sit on your scalp for too long. Rinse thoroughly.10-Feb-2021
