A 20-year-old university student in Hangzhou, China—known online as Xiaolin—paid a steep price for her beauty routine after nearly two years of monthly hair dyeing and bleaching. Her quest for vibrant hair colors led to a life-threatening condition that forced her to shave her head to survive.
Xiaolin, admired for her sweet appearance and large social media following, began dyeing her hair regularly to emulate her idols. At times, she bleached her hair up to three times in a single month to achieve the desired shade. While her ever-changing hairstyles drew online attention, they also triggered a severe medical crisis.
Last month, after trying a new purple dye, Xiaolin noticed dense purple spots on her legs. Initially mistaking them for mosquito bites, she ignored them. But within a week, the spots spread across her body, accompanied by abdominal pain, joint swelling, and brown-colored urine.
Alarmed, she sought medical help and broke down upon learning she had hemorrhagic nephritis—a serious kidney inflammation. Dr. Wei Wei, deputy director at Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, explained that the condition is a common complication of Henoch-Schönlein purpura, where immune complexes accumulate in the kidneys, potentially leading to renal failure, gastrointestinal bleeding, and even death.
Upon examination, Xiaolin’s legs were covered in symmetrical purpura, with large purple patches on her back and abdomen. Her urine tested positive for protein, indicating impaired kidney function. Doctors administered high-dose glucocorticoids, immunosuppressants, and antihistamines. The purple dye she had used was identified as a strong allergen, prompting doctors to recommend shaving her head to prevent further exposure.
For Xiaolin, who cherished her long hair, the suggestion was devastating. She cried uncontrollably but eventually agreed after encouragement from her family and a psychologist.
After four weeks of treatment, her symptoms subsided, and her kidney function improved. She was discharged with strict instructions to avoid hair dye and attend regular check-ups.
Experts Warn of Rising Cases
Dr. Chen Li, head of nephrology at Changsha Third Hospital, noted a growing number of similar cases. Hair dyes contain highly allergenic chemicals that can enter the bloodstream through tiny scalp wounds, triggering severe immune reactions.
While not everyone reacts to hair dye, frequent use—especially of low-quality products—significantly increases the risk. Dr. Chen advises conducting patch tests before dyeing, choosing reputable brands, and reducing frequency. Individuals with eczema or drug allergies should be particularly cautious.
“If you experience scalp swelling, difficulty breathing, or body rashes after dyeing your hair, rinse immediately, take antihistamines, and seek medical attention,” Dr. Wei emphasized. “Beauty should never come at the cost of your health.”
As for Xiaolin, she reflects on her ordeal with regret: “I wish I hadn’t dyed my hair so often. This lesson was painfully unforgettable.”
Source: Sohu