Hair coloring products have come a long way over the years. Today there are many options for coloring and nourishing your hair. Nutrient hair colors are designed to deposit color while providing nourishment to hair strands. But is nutrient hair color actually safe for your hair? Let’s take a closer look.
How nutrient hair color works
Nutrient hair colors contain key ingredients like vitamins, botanical oils and minerals that aim to improve hair health. Here’s a quick overview of how nutrient hair color works:
- The hair color formula contains ammonia, peroxide and dye molecules that open the cuticle layer and deposit color pigment into the hair shaft.
- The formula also contains nourishing ingredients like keratin, antioxidants, oils and humectants that aim to condition hair and counteract damage from the coloring process.
- The nutrients are deposited into the hair shaft during the coloring process. They may help strengthen hair, boost shine and reduce dryness.
- Many nutrient hair colors are permanent, meaning the color will not wash out. Others are demi-permanent and gradually fade over 4-12 weeks.
The safety debate
When it comes to safety, there are a few key considerations with nutrient hair color:
Ingredient concerns
Most permanent and demi-permanent hair dyes contain chemicals like ammonia, peroxide, p-phenylenediamine (PPD) and other intermediates. These ingredients help open the cuticle and enable dye molecules to penetrate the hair shaft. However, they can be damaging if used incorrectly or too frequently. Frequent dyeing can cause breakage, dryness and irritation.
Allergic reactions
PPD is known to cause allergic reactions in some people. Reactions can range from mild redness and itching, to severe swelling, rash and even anaphylaxis. Doing a patch test before each dye application can help identify any allergies.
Carcinogen concerns
In the past, some animal studies linked hair dye ingredients to cancer. This led to concerns about the safety of hair dyes. However, human epidemiological studies have not found conclusive evidence that personal hair dye use increases cancer risk.
While an association between hair dye and cancer cannot be completely ruled out, most experts believe occasional personal use carries very little risk. But more research is still needed.
Tips for safe nutrient hair coloring
When used correctly, most experts believe nutrient hair colors are safe for occasional use. Here are some tips for safe coloring:
- Do an allergy patch test before each dye application.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely.
- Protect your skin and eyes from contact with dye.
- Avoid bleaching right before or after coloring. This can damage hair.
- Limit dyeing frequency to 6-8 weeks for permanent color.
- Rinse thoroughly after coloring to remove excess dye.
- Use a deep conditioning treatment after each dye application.
- See a dermatologist if you experience any reactions or scalp irritation.
The best nutrient hair color brands
If you want to try a nutrient hair color, look for products that contain nourishing ingredients while limiting harsh chemicals. Here are some top options:
| Brand | Key Nutrients | Dye Type |
|---|---|---|
| Madison Reed | Keratin, argan oil, ginseng | Ammonia-free permanent & demi-permanent |
| Olivia Garden | Bamboo, shea butter, vitamins | Demi-permanent |
| L’anza | Hemp seed oil, keratin | Permanent & demi-permanent |
| Overtone | Argan oil, sunflower oil | Semi-permanent (deposit only) |
| Celeb Luxury | Argan oil, coconut oil | Demi-permanent |
Professional vs at-home nutrient hair color
You can get your nutrient hair color done professionally at a salon, or opt for an at-home box kit:
| Professional | At-Home | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Expensive ($65-$250) | Cheap ($8-$25) |
| Application | Applied by a colorist | Self-applied |
| Ammonia | Low or no ammonia | Contains ammonia |
| Grey coverage | Excellent | Good |
| Nutrient quality | Salon brands with high-quality ingredients | More affordable ingredients |
While salon coloring costs more, you’ll get a skilled application and salon-quality products. However, at-home kits are still an affordable option if done safely.
Safer nutrient hair color alternatives
If you’re concerned about chemical hair dye but want added nourishment, consider alternatives like:
Semi-permanent rinses
Made with lower levels of PPD, these deposit temporary color that washes out in 4-12 shampoos. Try brands like Overtone, Celeb Luxury Vivids, Lime Crime.
Henna dye
Derived from the henna plant, this natural dye gradually coats hair for a subtle color change. Can add lush red tones.
Caffeinated shampoos
Shampoos like Keracolor Clenditioner use caffeine, vitamins and polymers to coat strands with a light transparent color. Safe for daily use.
Color-depositing masks
These deeply conditioning masks use ingredients like beets or minerals to add a sheer color tint to hair with each use. Try brands like Celeb Luxury Viral Colorwash.
The takeaway
When used correctly and minimally, most experts agree nutrient hair colors are safe for the majority of people. Look for options with natural oils and antioxidants while avoiding harsh chemicals when possible. Doing a patch test and following directions can help minimize risk. Speak to your colorist or dermatologist if you have any concerns.
While permanent chemical dyes involve some risks, the nourishing ingredients in today’s nutrient hair colors may help counteract damage. With cautious use, you can achieve beautiful, healthy colored hair.