What’s better than changing your hair color? Let me tell you. Using a sulfate-free hair dye.
Some hair dyes contain harsh chemicals such as sulfates. They may cause allergic reactions and irritations.
Sulfate-Free Hair Dye Products
These reactions may appear or not. It depends on your skin and the product your using (the concentration of ingredients, the type of ingredients used).
Using a sulfate-free hair dye can prevent such reactions and may be a great alternative if you are prone to allergies or you have sensitive skin.
Just like a hypoallergenic vacuum cleaner can be great if you have allergy problems.
Going for such a product can be really beneficial for you.
Benefits of using a sulfate-free hair dye
No irritant sulfates
To give you a brief idea about sulfates, they are known for causing skin irritations.
This is valid not only for hair dyes, but also for other beauty products. They are used in shampoos, conditioners, and lotions.
A sulfate-free hair dye can keep you away from these chemicals, meaning it may reduce the risk of allergies.
Always follow the instructions written on the package or listen carefully to the recommendations of your hairstylist, especially if you’re dying your hair for the first time.
You may have to test the product and wait some time to see how you react.
Also, depending on the product you’re using, the hair dye may lack other chemicals. Check it or ask your hairstylist to tell you.
May provide amazing results
A sulfate-free hair dye can provide amazing results in terms of hair coloring. It can cover your grey hairs and make your hair glow.
This may or may not happen due to several reasons.
First of all, if you’re switching from a conventional hair dye to a sulfate-free hair dye, it may take time until your hair adapts to it.
Conventional coloring products are stronger because of their ingredients. Sulfate-free are effective, but they may not be as strong.
Your hair type and hair color may also influence how the coloring process goes. If you’re going for a big change (e.g. from redhead to blonde), it may take some time until you obtain the desired result.
Ask your hairstylist for advice and be patient with big changes.
Chemicals used in conventional hair dyes
Types of hair dyes
Before I start speaking about chemicals used in conventional hair dyes, it’s essential you know more about hair dyes.
These products can be divided into three types:
- Temporary – last 1-2 washes and don’t penetrate the hair shaft
- Semi-permanent – last 5-10 washes and penetrate the hair shaft
- Permanent – cause long-term changes in the hair shaft; these changes last until new hair grows
Sulfates
Sulfates used in dyes are sodium, potassium, and ammonium sulfates.
They are found in several products and may reach concentrations of up to 60%.
The problem with them is they can cause skin irritations.
Sulfate fumes may be dangerous and may cause asthma and lung problems.
If you’re interested in this topic, learn more about healthy shampoo and conditioner.
Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is an ingredient used to remove the natural color from your hair. It’s commonly found in hair bleaches.
It may be corrosive and can change your hair structure.
PPD
PPD comes from para-phenylenediamine, an ingredient used in dark dyes.
It’s made of a petroleum-derived chemical named coal tar.
In combination with hydrogen peroxide, it can be toxic. Also, PPD can cause allergic reactions such as rashes, face swelling, and blisters.
Resorcinol
Resorcinol is also a dye which has been linked to allergies and skin irritations.
It may also cause a disruption of the normal hormonal functioning.
Lead acetate
Lead acetate is a color additive found in dark hair dyes.
It has been linked to neurological problems and anemia.
Ammonia
Ammonia is a common ingredient found in many hair dyes. Its role is to open up the cuticle for the hair dye to come in easily.
It’s a popular irritant for the eyes, skin, and may also cause respiratory problems.
Nowadays, you may find many hair dyes that don’t contain ammonia.
Tips on taking care of color treated hair
When you choose to color your hair, you need to take care of your color and do certain things to maintain it.
Picking a sulfate-free hair dye is the first step.
A fragrance-free shampoo for color treated hair is the next step. The ingredients from this product help you maintain a vivid color.
Hair masks are another essential element for taking care of your colored hair. You can buy them or you can make them yourself.
All you need is:
- 1 tablespoon of mashed avocado
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon of honey
If you have long and dense hair, double (or triple) the quantity to be sure it’s enough.
Mix the ingredients, apply the composition on your hair and let it sit for 30 minutes.
Shampoo, rinse and your hair will be soft and shiny.