Colour it right
Hair colour is something that’s widely used today. There are multiple brands and shades to choose from, and DYI variants are hugely popular. Experts talk about best practices to follow
In India, henna has for long been the go-to answer for age-related greying. But, due to the advancements in the beauty industry, different types of branded hair colours are now available, pushing traditional colouring agents into the background. While it is widely known that hair-colouring agents contain chemicals like ammonia, pPhenylenediamine and Hydrogen Peroxide which can cause several hair and skin issues, the companies making these products claim they are completely safe and suitable for home use. However, experts feel these claims should be taken with a pinch of salt.
A SUITABLE COLOUR
Hair colouring agents are used by millions of people, both men and women, today. Hair colouring is done by professionals and on a DYI basis too. But in either case, it is important to choose the most suitable product, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions while using it.
Shilpa Joshi Halder, Senior Scientist, Hair Colour & Care Development Manager, South
Asia, L’Oréal Paris, points out that brands are constantly introducing new and improved colours to attract buyers. “It’s important that you always go through the ingredients list and avoid choosing a product that contains components that you may be sensitive to. I suggest using a formula that best suits your hair type to get the desired results,” she says. She recommends products with a pro keratin formula that protects hair and keeps it glossy for a long time.
ASK A PROFESSIONAL
The varieties of hair colour which are advertised as easy to use at home are attractive, particularly when one is strapped for money or time. It’s easy to head to the nearest supermarket or medical store and pick up a hair colour pack. But cosmetologist Kiran, who works at Junoesque Clinique, Delhi, feels that any hair colouring procedure done at home is not safe and it is advisable to go to a professional. “When professionals do it, they analyse the hair and use the least damaging level of developer possible to get the desired result; so it’s way less damaging than
doing it yourself explains.
Remember, even heading off to a salon for a routine hair-colour job is not recommended. A prior consultation with a hair-care professional is the best way to go. If you are colouring your hair at home, it is crucial to follow the instructions that come with the product. The components should be mixed in the proportions recommended for each brand, as formulae of different brands will vary. Also, it is best to do an allergy test 48 hours before the actual application. “Apply a pea-sized amount of the unmixed colourant product at the back of your ear using a cotton swab. Repeat the process 2-3 times and leave it for 48 hours. If you do not notice any abnormal reaction such as redness, rashes or swelling during this period, the product is good to use,” says Halder. at home,” she
It’s important that you always go through the ingredients list and avoid choosing a product that contains components that you may be sensitive to — SHILPA JOSHI HALDER, SENIORSCIENTIST,HAIRCOLOUR&CARE DEVELOPMENTMANAGER,L’ORÉALPARIS