Why Won’t Hair Colorists Dye Your Hair if You’ve Used Henna?
Many people are curious about the reasons why hair colorists may be hesitant to dye your hair if you've used henna. This article will explore the complications, offers advice, and provides valuable insights into the hair care process.
Chemical Interaction
Henna, a natural dye, binds to the hair shaft. When mixed with chemical dyes, it can cause unpredictable outcomes such as uneven coloring or undesired tones. Hair colorists are aware of these risks and can guide you on the best course of action.
Color Staining Hair Damage
The pigments in henna can interfere with the absorption of chemical dyes, leading to unexpected color results. For example, a color applied over henna might turn green or murky. In addition, if chemical dyes are applied to hair that has previously been dyed with henna, this can result in increased damage or breakage as the two types of dye react negatively with each other. The barrier created by henna can also make it difficult for chemical dyes to penetrate, leading to faster fading or poor color longevity.
Safe Hair Coloring After Henna
It's important to consult a colorist experienced in working with henna-treated hair. They can provide expert advice and suggest safe alternatives. Some may recommend waiting for the henna to fade or using specific techniques to achieve the desired result.
Henna-Related Common Misconceptions
It's not uncommon for stylists to rely on outdated information provided by chemical dye companies. However, using pure henna allows for safe application with chemical dyes. Other forms of henna, such as those mixed with other plants or dyes, can contain metallic salts that can react with hair and cause damage.
Red henna (Lawsonia inermis) is a plant-based dye that can change hair to a reddish hue. It is temporary on the skin but permanent on the hair. Pure henna contains no metallic salts or other chemicals, making it a natural and safe option for haircoloring. Unfortunately, many "henna" products sold in stores may contain additives that can harm the hair when combined with chemical dyes.
Recommendations for Safe Hair Dyeing
Experienced colorists are aware that natural 100% Lawsonia inermis henna poses no risk of chemical reactions, as long as it has not been mixed with other chemicals or metallic salts. Real henna can last for 4-24 hours, making it safe to be in contact with metal utensils and hair clips. Hair colorists often avoid hair that has been dyed with boxed chemical hair color, as these dyes often contain metallic salts and other chemicals that can react with other dyes.
For those looking to use henna for hair coloring, many companies offer 100% pure-Lawsonia inermis henna or henna-based hair colors that combine with other non-reactive plant dyes. These products can be found in cosmetology stores and online, providing a safer and more effective hair coloring solution.
As the market for non-chemical hair color continues to grow, it is important for cosmetology schools to develop guidelines that accommodate those who use henna, allowing them to access salon coloring options just as those who use drugstore boxed hair color can.
Understanding the potential complications and following the right procedures can help you achieve the desired look without damaging your hair. Consult with an experienced hair colorist and consider using quality henna or natural hair color products for safe and stunning results.