Why should you avoid ammonia, SLS and parabens in hair dyes?
When choosing your first hair color or simply trying out a new brand, the focus is usually on the look of the color. But what about the product's ingredients? These are just as important as they affect the health of the hair and therefore how well the color is absorbed. Ammonia, SLS (sodium lauryl sulphate) and parabens are three common ingredients in hair dyes that can have a negative impact on your hair, your health and the environment.
Ammonia is harmful to hair and scalp
Ammonia is often used in hair dyes to open up the hair strands so that the color can penetrate deeper and last longer. But ammonia has several disadvantages:
- Skin irritation and allergic reactions: Ammonia is often used in hair dyes to open up the hair cuticles, allowing the color to penetrate deeper and last longer. However, ammonia can cause severe skin irritation and allergic reactions. Many people are sensitive to ammonia, which can lead to painful and uncomfortable symptoms such as redness, itching and swelling, especially if you have sensitive skin.
- Strong odor: The pungent smell of ammonia can be overpowering and unpleasant, both for you and the people around you. This odor is caused by the chemical composition of ammonia, which releases ammonia gas that can irritate the respiratory tract.
- Damage to hair: Ammonia can damage the hair structure by drying it out and making it brittle. This can lead to hair loss, split ends and dry hair. Hair becomes more susceptible to damage from hot styling tools and other chemical treatments.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
SLS is a cheap detergent used in many beauty products to create lather. In hair dyes, it helps to distribute the color more evenly. But SLS also has several disadvantages that can cause the following consequences:
- Skin irritation: SLS can severely irritate the skin, causing dryness, itching and redness. It removes the scalp's natural oils, which can lead to dandruff, dry hair and an itchy scalp. A healthy scalp is important for strong hair and maintaining natural moisture.
- Hair damage: SLS removes the natural oils from the hair, making it dry and brittle. This can lead to split ends and generally unhealthy hair. For people with already damaged hair, SLS can be particularly damaging as it can aggravate the condition and lead to hair loss.
- Environmental impact: SLS is not particularly environmentally friendly. When washed down the drain, it can have harmful effects on aquatic life. SLS can also pollute rivers and lakes and negatively impact ecosystems.
Parabens
Parabens are used as preservatives in many cosmetic products to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold. Although this sounds good at first, there are several reasons why parabens should be avoided in hair color:
- Hormone disruptors: Parabens are known to disrupt hormones. They can mimic estrogen in the body and disrupt hormonal balance, potentially leading to health problems such as breast cancer. Research has shown that parabens can accumulate in body tissues and cause hormonal imbalances over time.
- Accumulation in the body: Parabens can accumulate in the body. Studies have found parabens in tissue samples from people using chemical beauty products, which has raised concerns about their long-term effects on the body.
- Skin problems: Parabens can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially in people with sensitive skin. Symptoms can include redness, itching and swelling, which can be problematic with repeated contact.
Alternatives to aggressive hair dyes
Fortunately, there are many hair dyes on the market that avoid these harmful ingredients. Here are some alternatives that can give you beautiful hair without negative side effects:
- Ammonia-free hair color: These products use alternative chemicals such as MEA (monoethanolamine) or DEA (diethanolamine) to open the hair cuticles without the harmful effects of ammonia. These alternatives are milder and do not have a strong odor.
- Sulfate-free hair color: Sulfate-free hair colors are gentle on the hair and scalp. They do not contain SLS, which can strip the natural oils from the hair. Sulphate-free hair dye is often gentler and preserves the hair's natural shine and moisture.
- Paraben-free hair color: By choosing paraben-free hair color, you reduce the risk of hormonal imbalances and skin problems. Instead of parabens, we use preservatives such as vitamin E, rosemary extract and essential oils, which preserve the durability of the hair color without any health risks.
- Natural and organic hair dyes: Natural hair colors avoid unnecessary chemicals and contain many good ingredients that provide the hair with proteins, antioxidants and vitamins. These ingredients nourish the hair while it is being colored. Organic ingredients are better for health and the environment. If you don't want permanent hair color, we recommend semi-permanent hair color.
A natural product is also better for the environment
Choosing a hair color without ammonia, SLS and parabens is not only a smart choice for your health, but also for the environment. By paying attention to the ingredients in your beauty products, you can protect your hair and contribute to a more sustainable future.
- Read the ingredients list: Pay attention to the ingredients list and avoid products that contain ammonia, SLS and parabens.
- Choose organic alternatives: Look for certified organic products that are made with natural ingredients.
- Listen to your body: If you have sensitive skin or have experienced allergic reactions in the past, choose products that are specially formulated for sensitive skin.
Choosing a hair color without ammonia, SLS and parabens is a decision that benefits both your health and the environment. By choosing products that are free from harmful chemicals, you can ensure that your hair stays healthy and beautiful. Reach for natural and organic alternatives and give your hair the care it deserves.