Changing your appearance can have numerous positive benefits. For many, that includes
changing the color of their hair. However, common chemical-based dyes often have harsh
ingredients that could cause damage to your scalp and hair over time. Vikki Gerrard La Crosse,
a sustainability advocate, discusses the safe alternatives for chemical-based hair dyes.
Origins Of Hair Dye
Hair dye has been around since ancient times. Ancient Egyptians used henna to paint detailed
designs on their skin and hair, while the ancient Greeks and Romans utilized plant-based dyes
to color their hair. Even in the 20th century, people used vegetable dyes such as beetroot and
elderberry to obtain a desired color.
Since then, modern chemical-based dyes have become popular for achieving vibrant shades of
color quickly and easily. But these are often made with harsh ingredients that may cause scalp
irritation, hair loss, and other unwanted side effects. Today, there are many more options
available for hair dyeing that don’t involve harsh chemicals. Some of the safest alternatives are
even more natural than vegetable-based dyes of the past.
Chemicals In Traditional Hair Dye
Traditional hair dye products often contain a variety of harsh chemicals. These ingredients can
cause damage to the scalp, hair follicles, and strands. Common chemicals found in traditional
dyes include:
Ammonia
Ammonia is a type of alkaline compound used to open the hair follicles and allow the dye to
penetrate deep into the scalp. In traditional hair dyes, ammonia concentrations ranging from five
to 25%. It can be quite drying to the hair, causing scalp irritation and making strands more prone
to breakage.
PPDs
PPDs, or paraphenylenediamine, are related chemicals used as colorants in hair dyes. They
can be found in both permanent and semi-permanent dyes. PPDs have been linked to
increased skin sensitivity, allergies, and even cancer. They can also cause eye and respiratory
irritation.
Peroxide
Peroxide is a powerful oxidizing agent that helps to activate the color of the dye. It is primarily
used in permanent dyes, as it can cause significant damage to the hair follicles over time. It can
lead to dryness and brittleness of the strands, scalp irritation, and inflammation.
Safe Alternatives To Chemical-Based Hair Dye
Fortunately, there are plenty of safe alternatives to chemical-based hair dyes. Here are some of
the healthiest and most popular options:
Vegetable-Based Dyes
Vegetable-based dyes are made from natural ingredients such as henna, indigo, and cassia
obovata. Unlike chemical dyes, these vegetable-derived colors will not damage your hair or
irritate the scalp. They come in a variety of shades and are generally easy to apply. The upside
of vegetable-based dyes is that they last for several weeks and can be used to create subtle,
natural highlights. However, the downside is that they can be difficult to remove from the skin
and other surfaces.
Henna
Henna is an ancient plant-based dye used in many cultures to color hair, skin, and fabrics. It’s
safe to use and can be found in various shades, from light browns to vibrant reds. Henna won’t
damage the hair like chemical dyes, but it does give long-lasting results. Additionally, henna can
create subtle or dramatic highlights, depending on its application.
Indigo
Indigo is another plant-based dye that can be used to color hair. It’s made from the leaves of the
indigo plant and has been used for centuries as a natural dye. Indigo can be used alone or in
combination with henna to create a variety of shades. It gives more natural-looking highlights
than chemical dyes and doesn’t damage the hair.
Herbal Hair Colors
Herbal hair colors are from plant extracts such as amla, shikakai, and aloe vera. These
ingredients are known for their nourishing properties and can be used to create subtle highlights
or full-color coverage. Herbal dyes are far gentler on the hair and scalp than chemical colors
and are free from harsh chemicals like ammonia or peroxide.
Organic Hair Colors
Organic hair colors are similar to herbal colors but use only certified organic ingredients. These
products contain fewer synthetic chemicals and are less likely to cause damage or irritation.
Organic pigments are available in various shades, from natural highlights to bold tints. They
won’t fade as quickly as chemical dyes and are less drying and damaging to the hair follicles.
Keeping Your Hair Healthy While Using Natural Dyes
Although natural dyes are a much safer alternative to chemical-based products, they can still
cause damage if not used properly. Here are some tips for keeping your hair healthy while using
natural dyes:
● Always do a patch test before applying any dye to ensure it won’t irritate your skin or
scalp. Follow the directions carefully, and never leave the dye on your hair longer than
recommended.
● Use a deep conditioning treatment after coloring to restore moisture and shine.
● Avoid washing your hair too often or using harsh shampoos that can strip away color.
● Opt for natural dyes with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, amla, and shikakai.
● Avoid bleaching or lightening your hair with chemical products.
Final Thoughts
Finding ways to color your hair without damaging it can be difficult, but Vikki Gerrard La Crosse
knows with the right products, it’s possible. Natural and organic dyes are a great alternative to
chemical-based products and can create subtle or dramatic highlights without damaging your
hair follicles. Be sure to choose a product specifically designed for your hair type and follow the
application instructions carefully. With proper care, you can keep your hair healthy and beautiful
while using natural dyes.
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