Hair Dye

In 1950, only an approximate seven percent of American women were using hair dye regularly. This was usually for the purposes of concealing gray hair. However, it has currently been noted that over 75 percent of modern American females dye their hair. In fact, men are rapidly jumping on the hair-care boat as well, adding to the high number of coloring-product sales.

Black dyed hair

Sixty years ago women might have used coloring agents to put off visible signs of aging such as graying or muted hair tones. Today’s society rejoices in its quest for creativity. Hair color is used to brighten dull complexions, complete a look, and in some cases, a new and vibrant color can revitalize one’s personality. It is no surprise that red ranks as the most sought after hair color in salons and drugstores.

Hair dyes are usually divided into three major categories:

• Semi-permanent color
• Demi-permanent color
• Permanent color

Semi-permanent color is used to accentuate a person’s base color. It does not interact with the hair’s natural pigment, but instead permeates the hair cuticle and enhances the overall color. Because semi-permanent color contains neither ammonia nor peroxide, it only affects the outer layer of the hair shaft. The color molecules will usually exit the hair between 6 to 12 shampoos. However, if one has extremely fair colored strands or chemically processed hair that exhibits damage to the cuticle, semi-permanent color may be absorbed deep into the hair shaft, resulting in a more lingering color.

Demi-permanent color is used to subtly enhance hair color and has a lasting effect of between 24 to 26 shampoos. Because this type of color does not contain ammonia, no lightening effect can be achieved. Demi-permanent colors are frequently used for a more prolonged color effect, but the results are similar to that of a semi-permanent color. Trace amounts of peroxide serve to blend the shade evenly and promote the entry of color molecules into the hair’s cortex.

Permanent hair dyes noticeably alter the color of a person’s hair. These hair products usually contain both ammonia and peroxide that lighten the natural pigment of one’s hair and form a new base color before the permanent shade takes hold. Hence, permanent color may fade slightly over time but it will not wash out. It is recommended that color touch-ups occur between four to six weeks. People seeking to change their hair color after using a permanent shade will either have to re-color their hair or let their current shade grow out over time.

Although research has not proved conclusive, a few studies indicate that coal/petroleum-based hair dye and color agents containing ammonia can contribute to hair loss. In the past, cancer concerns have also arisen from the usage of coal-based coloring products. Also, the effects of hair color is greatly influenced by the amount of processing one’s hair has previously undergone. Attempts to lighten dark hair may result in orange and brassy undertones. In fact, hair that is to be lightened more than three shades must be double processed, meaning the current color is stripped away before the desired shade is added.

As the increase of scientific studies on beauty products continue to rise, so have public health concerns. Many non-toxic and natural hair color products are now available on the market. These products rival the effects of synthetic hair dyes without the use of harmful additives.

Both EcoColors and Herbatint offer Non-toxic permanent hair colors for consumers who remain concerned about their chemical usage.

Henna is a safe and natural way to deepen or accentuate the natural pigments in one’s hair. Although its effects are not permanent, henna also coats and conditions the hair cuticle resulting in a thick lustrous feel. Considerations when using henna include the chemical condition of one’s strands because the usage of this product on overly processed hair can result in undesired color effects.

Written by Ann Parkinson

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