Q. EVERY TIME I GET MY HAIR BLEACHED, MY HEAD'S ITCHY AND SORE. I'M ALSO WORRIED ABOUT CHEMICALS LEAKING INTO MY BLOODSTREAM - CAN THEY CAUSE CANCER? Alison, 42, by email
A. There's no evidence linking hair dyes and cancer but if you're worried, opt for a semi- permanent colour, which has fewer chemicals. The bleach might be causing dermatitis on your scalp. The more you dye your hair, the worse the reaction could get and you may be left with long-standing irritation, so speak to your stylist, who may have seen this problem before, or ask your GP. Skin reactions to hair dye can often be managed with a topical steroid treatment.
■ Got a question for our health experts? Email Dr Pixie and co at askzest@zest.co.uk
