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There are many reasons why a woman may suddenly start losing her hair: hormone changes after giving birth, underactive or overactive thyroid, chemotherapy and side effects to a medication are among the common culprits. However, hair that is overprocessed, dyed or bleached can break off at the shaft or root and leave a woman left to contend with temporary hair loss. The good news is that once the chemical reaction stops, the roots can begin growing again.

Nothing Hair-larious About This

Get to know and understand what exactly is in your hair dye. If you have your hair colored at a salon, ask your stylist what the ingredients are in every color he mixes. When coloring your hair at home, take note of possible cancer-causing and harmful agents such as para-phenylenediamine (PPD), coal tar and lead acetate that are listed on the box.

A Hair-Raising Experience

A sudden illness, such as coughing, wheezing, hives and runny nose, after dying your hair could be mean your hair is reacting badly to the color. You may notice shortly afterward your hair has broken off in sections -- either at the root or at the ends -- where the color was applied.

Colorful Expectations

Visit a professional hairstylist to even out your hair due to its loss. If the worst happens and you lose your hair at its root due to hair coloring alone, it will grow back. In the meantime, visit a reputable wig salon and choose a hair piece that best represents your color and cut. Moving forward, use only natural hair dyes such as henna and vegetable-based products. Note also that The American Cancer Society warns women against dying eyelashes and eyebrows.