Overview
Hair coloring is a trend that has been there for quite some time. In an era where people are often judged by the way the look, many hair styles have emerged over the years. Many women and men see their hair as an important aspect of their physical appearance no wonder the increased popularity of hair dye. It is especially common in people who want to project a more youthful look.
What is Hair Coloring?
Hair coloring involves changing the color of your hair by applying hair dye on it. A hair dye works by removing, replacing or covering up the color pigment naturally found in your hair. Hair dyes vary greatly in their chemical make-up thus their different types.
Different Types of Hair Dyes
• Permanent
These dyes cause lasting chemical changes in the hair shaft. They cause color changes that last until the hair is replaced by new growth. They normally contain coloring agents such as aromatic amines and phenols which in the presence of hydrogen peroxide they go through chemical reactions to become dyes. The darker the hair dyes, the more the coloring agents.
• Temporary
These dyes cover the surface of the hair but don’t penetrate into the hair shaft.
• Semi-permanent
These dyes do penetrate into the hair shaft.
What Are Hair Coloring Agents Made From?
Hair dye is a solution filled with a multitude of chemicals, some of which are potent carcinogens. As much as you are not ingesting them, caution should be taken due to the fact that hair dye sits on your scalp and is absorbed by your skin. Not to mention breathing in the chemical fumes pose just as much threat as absorbing them.
What hair types are suitable for hair coloring?
All hair types may be colored. What majorly changes is the amount of time required during the coloring process. This is due to the different hair textures and also the condition the hair is at the time of coloring. For example, coarse hair will take more time to absorb the color as compared to fine hair. Hair that’s dry or permed may absorb color quickly too. A strand test is thus important to determine the processing time for each hair.
How long does hair color last?
This is determined by the type of hair dye used. The temporary dyes last about 2 washings while the semi-permanent ones last for 5 to 10 washings. The permanent dyes last until the hair gets new growth.
Some more interesting facts about hair coloring
• The only way to fully cover a whole head of grey hair is to use permanent dye.
• Coloring your hair does not contribute to premature grays since when you apply dye to your hair, the hair follicle, where grey hairs originate, isn’t affected.
• After you dye your hair, ensure you use color-protective shampoo and conditioner
• If you’ve lightened your hair, visit a professional who will advise you and help you transition gracefully back to your original shade.
• It’s recommended that one shouldn’t shampoo immediately before coloring because this will remove the natural oils that protect your scalp during the coloring process.
The Pros of Hair Coloring
1. It loosens the natural curl pattern of hair. This is especially beneficial to people with very coily hair and finds looser curls easier to manage.
2. It allows one to have a new look anytime they want. It looks cool and different depending on one’s taste preferences.
3. It can thicken each hair strand thus providing more body and volume to hair. This is perfect for people with thin hair and want to give the illusion of thickness
The Cons of Hair Coloring
1. It frequently dries hair out.
2. The stronger, more permanent dyes weaken hair – this is not ideal if your hair is already damaged.
3. Some hair dyes are known to put on at a higher risk of getting cancer. Over the years, hair dyes have been associated with a number of malignancies such as the bladder and the lymphoma cancers.
4. Dyes can cause allergic reactions or discolor your own skin.
5. It has been linked to rheumatoid arthritis.
6. Hair dye may trigger asthma.
Conclusion
Hair dyes are good if they are used with caution. To look great is a good thing, but it can only be achieved if you take good care your health. Consult a professional to advice you on which hair dye type are good and also the various risks involved.
Reference
1) https://www.consumerhealthdigest.com/hair-loss/7-things-to-know-before-dyeing-your-hairs.html
2) http://www.wikihow.com/Take-Care-of-Color-Treated-Hair
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