24.11.2025

Allergy & Sensitivity Reactions to Hair Extensions: Symptoms & Prevention

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Ivana Farisei

Hair extensions scalp irritationcan sometimes occur, especially in the first few days after the procedure. Such reactions are temporary and are most often associated with individual skin characteristics, increased sensitivity, allergies, or getting used to new strands.

At Ivana Farisei salon, we care about the comfort of each client, so we use only certified, hypoallergenic, premium-class materials and strictly adhere to all safety standards. Before the extension procedure, our masters carefully assess the condition of the hair and scalp, check sensitivity and clarify the client's wishes to ensure comfort and safety. If you want to learn more about the service, possible reactions and their causes, read on.

Are hair extensions safe for sensitive scalp?

Modern methods of hair extension have come a long way. While 5-10 years ago there were a number of restrictions in this area, today almost anyone can have hair extensions. One of the safest technologies is keratin bonds extension. This is an organic material that eliminates the risk of allergies after the procedure. This is the technology we use at the Ivana Farisei beauty salon.

The best hypoallergenic hair extension methods are micro-extensions and nano-extensions. The capsules are so small that they are practically invisible to the eye. In addition, this method allows you to extend long curls even on the shortest and thinnest hair. This procedure is completely safe and allows complete freedom in caring for your new strands.

Contrary to popular belief, experts say that hair extensions for sensitive skin or scalp are also possible. The main thing is to follow the correct preparation and execution of the procedure itself. The specialist will select the optimal extension method, recommend the best care and advise when to make replacement.

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How to know if you're allergic to hair extensions?

It's worth noting right away: there's no such thing as an allergy to keratin bonds. Keratin is a natural protein that is already present in our own hair, so the body cannot react to it as an allergen. That is why keratin bond allergy symptoms cannot be symptoms of a true allergy.

However, after hair extensions, some people may experience temporary discomfort — a slight feeling of tightness, adjustment, or scalp sensitivity in the first 2-3 days. This is a natural adaptation process, not an allergic reaction.

Sometimes people confuse individual scalp sensitivity with a real allergy. For example, there may be slight itching or dryness, but these are not keratin bond allergy symptoms, but rather the skin's reaction to a change in care or individual characteristics.
An experienced technician always assesses the condition of the client's skin before the procedure and warns them if their skin is sensitive. In most cases, these sensations go away on their own.

It’s important to understand the difference: keratin is not glue. Professional extensions use natural Italian keratin, not adhesive compounds. Therefore, symptoms of an allergic reaction to keratin glue don’t apply to keratin bonds extensions.

An allergic reaction can only occur when using poor-quality adhesives in cheap systems, and only then can we talk about what causes an allergic reaction to hair extension glue. We do not use glue in our work, so there is no risk of allergy.

Can you be allergic to hair extensions?

Not to high-quality Italian keratin. If you experience discomfort, it’s almost always due to the condition of your scalp or improper care, rather than the material of the bonds.
If you are concerned, consult a professional — in most cases, a professional skin examination is sufficient to determine whether discomfort will occur.

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Causes of itchy scalp after hair extensions

After hair extensions, some clients may notice slight itching or discomfort on the scalp and mistakenly perceive it as an allergic reaction to hair extensions. In fact, there is no such thing as an allergy to keratin bonds — keratin is a natural protein that is already present in our hair. Any such sensations are usually related to the condition of the scalp or external factors. Below are the most common causes of itching that people often confuse with ‘allergies’.

Dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis). This is one of the most common causes of discomfort at the hair roots. It occurs when the skin becomes too dry or oily. In advanced cases, this problem can also cause irritation and redness.

Dryness. Dehydration of the hair and scalp is an equally common problem. It most often occurs due to improper care, the use of incorrect or poor-quality shampoos, conditioners, and oils.
Skin diseases. Severe itching after hair extensions can be caused by chemicals in bacterial folliculitis, dermatitis, and other diseases. There are cases when such a reaction is caused by medications prescribed for skin diseases.

Stress, excessive sweating. In such cases, the follicles produce excess sebum, which makes the skin oily. This creates a favourable environment for the growth of bacteria or the appearance of dandruff, which cause severe itching.

How to prevent allergies from hair extensions?

Now that you know that allergies to keratin bonds don’t exist, and that itching or irritation after hair extensions is usually related to the condition of the scalp and care, it’ is important to take care of your skin health. If your skin is prone to oiliness, dandruff, dryness or sensitivity, these factors can cause discomfort, after which people mistakenly ask how to treat allergic reaction to hair extensions — although in reality, you don't need to ‘treat allergies’, but rather maintain the health of your scalp.

By following the right care routine, you can easily avoid discomfort after hair extensions:

Use a mild shampoo. Wash your hair with products that don’t contain harsh chemicals. You should also avoid using water that is too hot, as it can damage sensitive skin and increase itching. In some cases, it is worth trying anti-dandruff shampoos with active ingredients.

Moisturise your hair in a timely manner. Excessive dryness is one of the main causes of irritation and itching. Use special products, such as leave-in conditioners, to help retain moisture. Specialised serums and other care products will also be useful in helping to relieve irritation during the adaptation period after hair extensions.

Maintain proper scalp hygiene. It’s important not to wash your hair too often, to choose cosmetics that are suitable for your skin and hair, and to follow the recommendations of specialists. Even something as simple as regular and proper combing will help prevent or reduce problems after hair extensions.

Conclusion

It’s safe to say that if there are isolated cases of hair extension glue allergy, they are related specifically to adhesive systems. Since we use only high-quality Italian keratin in our work, rather than glue, our clients are not at risk of such reactions.

Modern methods and materials, the right choice of bonds and a careful approach to the scalp minimise any risk of discomfort or irritation. To feel as comfortable and confident as possible, choose a certified stylist and high-quality materials.

And remember: even if someone has had reactions to adhesive systems in the past, this can be resolved — but you don't need to worry about it, because the keratin technology we use is safe and physiological for the hair and scalp.

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