Does Henna Hair Dye Actually Work?

I remember the first time I tried Henna. My hands were brown and my hair smelled like the earth. I wondered what I got myself into. I started to rinse it out and particles along with brown “dye” started to go down the drain. I dried it all up and voila! My hair was 3 shades darker. I didn’t mean for it to be that dark, but I should’ve read reviews. Other than that, I really loved how it came out. I would try it again and I should because there are tons of chemicals in your salon or boxed hair dyes.

I came up with a list of some of the chemicals you can find in hair dyes below that will make you think twice.

1. PPD

PPD is short for para-phenylenediamine. It is used as a dye for dark color shades and is made from coal tar, a petroleum-derived chemical that includes benzene, naphthalene, phenols, aniline, and other chemicals. It is also used as a wood preservative, and contact with skin is best to be avoided. Research states PPD in combination with Hydrogene Peroxide is very toxic and can lead to cancer.

2. Hydrogene Peroxide

Hydrogene Peroxide is mostly used to stip the natural color away, before applying the hair dye color. It is said to change the hair structure and make it brittle stripping it of its natural luster.

3. Ammonia

Ammonia is used to open up the hair’s cuticle (the outer layer of the hair) so the dyes can come into the shaft (the inside of the hair). It may produce caustic burns and lung irritation.

4. DMDM Hydantoin

DMDM Hydantoin is a preservative that slowly releases the toxic formaldehyde chemical, the longer it sits on the shelves. It may cause tissue irritation and affect the immune system. DMDM Hydantoin kills off fungi, yeasts and bacteria and it’s also used in herbicides, floor waxes, polymers, color photography, latex paints, cutting oils, adhesives, copying paper, and inks.

5. Parabens

The two most common parabens preservatives are Methylparaben and Propylparaben. They are widely used in hair care products and can produce severe allergies and skin irritation.

6. Lead Acetate

Lead Acetate is used as a color additive for the dark shade hair dyes. It is said to cause anemia and produce neurological problems.

7. Resorcinol

Resorcinol is a toxic dye that can cause scalp irritation and is an allergen affecting the endocrine system.

As you can see processing your hair can leave around some pesky toxins. Also, when you’re going to a salon theres even more chemicals we need to be aware of. My hope is that you can find an alternative like henna to color your hair. We all know that ol’ peroxide trick to lighten our hair, so keep it natural and good. I just like that I have an alternative now. It’s all about awareness and choice!