hair dye experiments

Hair Dye Science

Introduction: Hair Dye Science

Understanding the science of what is physically and chemically happening to your hair throughout the dying and aftercare process will give you insight into how to get the most mileage out of your color while maintaining truly healthy hair. We've all seen beauty product buzzwords like "sulfate free", "lifting" and "hydrating", but what does it all mean, and does it matter if all I want is bright color??

In this Ible, I've used a combination of photos and simple illustrations to explain the need-to-know science behind hair dye, as well as tips for keeping your hair healthy and your color vibrant over the course of time. This information is based on research and experience over 16 years of hair dying, as well as input from my color savvy hair dresser.

Step 1: How It Works

Each of your hair is covered in ridges, a structure referred to as the cuticle. Think of these like scales on a dragon or the points on a pinecone.

Healthy, natural hair is pretty smooth, with these cuticle ridges lying down flat and slick.

So how do we get dye to stick to this smooth surface? Much like a woodshop project, you'll need to rough it up to create a surface the dye molecules can stick to/ lodge under. The sand paper in this analogy is the main chemical in most permanent hair dye; Ammonia.

Ammonia opens the cuticle , lifting those ridges up as if they've been brushed the wrong direction. This allows chemical processes to go to work on the core, or "cortex", of the hair.

Ammonia can also be very damaging to your hair structure if used frequently! While sometimes a necessary evil to achieve the results you want, it pays to be smart about your exposure and finding alternatives. More on this later...

If using a permanent dye, your process will involve a Developer. The function of the developer is to "lift" (remove) your hair's natural pigment so that it can be more easily replaced by a lighter shade.

Developers come in different levels. The more dramatic your color change is, the higher your developer number will be.

Someone looking to match their current color or go darker will only need a developer level of 10 , since you don't really need to 'lift" out your current pigment.

Someone looking for subtle change (going dark blonde to light blonde) will only need a lift of 20.

A deep brunette going blonde may need a lift of 30 or 40 to make the full transition , and then possibly a color toner after that. Ever see someone with orange hair that doesn't look like they meant to do that? Chances are that was a home attempt at brunette-to-blonde. I highly recommend at least consulting with your hairdresser before leaping the color spectrum. A professional can give you sound advice on how to get the best results with the least damage.

After the developer has done its work, Color Molecules cling under those lifted ridges, bonding to the hair and changing the appearance.

SEMI-PERMANENT DYES

Semi-Permanent dyes work a bit differently. Because they don't contain ammonia and most don't require developer, they don't do any "lifting" or raise the cuticle much. This is why the side of a semi permanent hair dye box will likely advise you to stick within 2 shades of your natural color --going much farther simply won't happen. Semi-perm dye molecules stick to the outside of your hair shaft, forming a tinted layer. Pro: less damaging for your hair since it doesn't get roughed up. Con: The dye has less staying power because it's just sitting on the surface.

Most semi-permanent dyes advertise a gradual fade out over 28days, the benefit being no hard line as your roots grow in. Many fade faster than that due to environmental factors or bad hair habits. I'm a big advocate of semi-perm dyes because they're much kinder to your hair. I currently use permanent dye only once or twice a year to help chemically straighten my grays, but maintain vibrant color year round exclusively using semi-perms like Ion Color Brilliance and Special Effects.

Step 2: Sealing It In

Most box hair color comes with a tube of aftercare conditioner that claims to nourish hair for shine and softness.

While these conditioners are rarely as natural and fruit oil derived as some brands might claim, they do serve an important role in the dying process.

To get those dye molecules to lock in place, the cuticle ridges must be resealed (smoothed) down again. Conditioners help achieve that. Your hair feels good and looks shiny because the ridges are all smoothed out and going in the right direction again.

Keeping your hair moisturized keeps that cuticle sealed, thus the hair retains the dye longer. It is a good idea to condition any time you wash your hair and deep condition once a week, paying special attention to the last 1-3 inches at your ends where breakage and dryness is most likely to occur.

Store bough brands I have found to be very vibrant color-friendly include Mane n' Tail conditioner and L'Oreal EverSleek Reparative Conditoner.

Vinegar Rinse --Another great way to seal the cuticle and promote shiny hair. Apple cider vinegar and white vinegar both work. This is a favorite conditioning method of folks who are trying to steer away from chemicals in their beauty regime. You can do a vinegar rinse as part of your initial dye rinse-out, or keep some on hand for weekly use.

Simply mix 2 Tbsp vinegar in 1 cup water and keep it in a bottle in your shower. Avoid contact with eyes, and remember to dilute with water or you'll smell like salad dressing!

Step 3: Temperature

Hot and cold play roles in the science of hair dye as well.

Heat opens up the cuticle, much in the same way ammonia does chemically. This is why some hair dyes will suggest covering your head or applying heat while the color sets. The extra heat, whether from your own head or an external source like a blow dryer or steamer, optimizes the dye's processing for stronger results. The hair opens up, allowing color and moisture to really get in there deep.

Temperature's effect on hair is also why you might want to avoid extremely hot showers if you want to keep your color. Heat will open the hair up and allow dye molecules to escape easier.

Conversely, cold water helps seal the cuticle. Many hardcore dyers suggest only cold water rinses for your hair, which also promotes shine.

Step 4: All Natural Hair Treatments

While chemicals are a nearly inevitable part of hair dye (with the exception of henna), there are all natural ways to keep your hair balanced and able to support coloring. Hydration is a key factor.

Olive Oil -- I apply a light coating of olive oil to the ends of my hair most nights before bed. This gives the oil all night to sink into the hair and moisturize, helping prevent dryness and breakage caused by frequent coloring. It washes out with my morning shower so there's no trace of greasiness by the time I'm in public.

To avoid going overboard with the oil, I put some in a spritz bottle (along with a few drops of peppermint essential oil for scent). To apply, I spritz oil twice into my palm, then work that amount through my ends. Your hair will become shiny and slightly textured, but you shouldn't be so oily that you'll leave a grease spot on your pillowcase.

Coconut Oil or Honey Hair Masks -- Both are popular ingredients for deep conditioning hair masks, but I have only tried coconut oil. Be VERY sparing! If you're only applying to your ends, a coin size amount of coconut oil will do. Avoid application to the scalp until you are well acquainted with washing/ rinsing out the oil. It can take a little work and some shampoos are more effective at cutting the dense oil than others. I highly recommend doing your first coconut conditioning experiment on a weekend when you don't have anywhere to be. You may need a little extra time to perfect your gunk removal strategy.

Step 5: Fight the Fade!

While some loss of vibrance is reasonable to expect over time, if you're experiencing major fade out very quickly then there is probably a scientific culprit working against your dye.

Color Choice -- The major villain in my story is the red dye molecule itself. Red dye molecules are the largest, making it difficult for them to fit under the ridges of your lifted cuticle. They can cram in there, but it's sort of like putting on a pair of pants that is a size too small; you'll want to get out as soon as you can. If the hair cuticle does not get sealed and stay sealed, big fat red dye molecules basically just fall out of the ridges any time you wash.

Damaged Hair -- Hair that is too dry and damaged will not retain dye as long as healthy hair. Damage is typically a result of your daily habits and can be corrected once you identify what it is you're doing that is harmful. damage also results in a loss of moisture, which compounds poor hair condition and color loss. See photos for my shameful mistakes.

Damage from Over-Processing --I went through a period where I was using harsh drugstore box dyes every 3 weeks or so, trying to maintain super bright color. What I didn't realize was the reason my hair wasn't able to hold color anymore was BECAUSE I was dying too often. The ammonia had roughed up my hair so much that the cuticle could no longer be conditioned smooth again. Color molecules and moisture had no means of locking in, and would be washed away very quickly. This resulted in cutting off about 5 inches of super crispy hair and a moratorium on drugstore dyes for over a year to grow it back. Staying away from ammonia for a while helped my hair regain health and the ability to retain color more effectively.

Damage from Heat Styling -- Heat styling is drying by nature, but using tools that are kinder to your hair can prevent tons of damage. If you straighten your hair daily like I do, look into ditching your flat iron for a hot brush. Flat irons (even those that claim to infuse moisture or glide smoothly) are still essentially raking down the hair shaft. You're at high risk for damaging the hair's structure and gradually stripping out color. A year of flat ironing left me with raggedy, dry ends. Switching to a hot brush (John Freida makes a pretty affordable drugstore model) not only proved to be more effective for straightening, my hair is much healthier and color stays in longer.

Damage from Products -- You've probably heard the term "sulfate free" in relation to hair care, but may not know what it means. In short, sulfates are the chemicals in soaps and detergents that make them lather up into fun, picturesque bubbles. Sulfates are intended to cut through grease, whether that be on your dishes or on your head. In doing so, they can be a too bit harsh on your hair, causing dryness and damage to the cuticle. As you now know, this leads to loss of color. Consider trying a sulfate free shampoo or conditioner and see if it makes a difference in your hair health and color retention. I also suggest using color/ heat protectant if you heat style frequently.

High Chlorine Water -- In the U.S., all tap water has some degree of chlorination. Most of us don't think about it because it isn't really enough to taste or smell, but it is there, and it can add up when it comes to hair color. Do you find that your hair color fades very quickly, especially on the back of your head (where the shower water probably hits you if you're turned away to not get soap in your eyes)? Your color might be suffering because of daily exposure to higher than expected doses of chlorine. There are a few things you can do about this:

Test Your Water --If you want to be sure, you can test your water. There are a variety of home chlorine test kit options available on the market. If you're an aquarium hobbyist, you probably already have some water quality test strips that will measure chlorine, among other things.

Get a Filtered Shower Head -- I ended up doing this when I discovered our current apartment's water was SUPER chlorinated. A filtered shower head will take care of chlorine and other impurities before they reach your hair. These are also recommended if you find you have dry, itchy skin, which may also be a symptom of too much chlorine exposure. There are a number of affordable options out there and I found it easy to install and change filters.

Limit Your Exposure -- Plain and simple. If you think your shower water might be to blame for dry and faded locks, keep your head out of the water unless you're actively washing it. Lean out of the stream for your other lathering, leg shaving, etc. Deep condition to restore hair health and see if less time in chemical laden water makes a difference for you.

Step 6: Color Depositing Conditioner

My favorite way to fight the fade is to use a custom color depositing conditioner at least twice a week. This keeps your color looking fresh and eliminates the need to dye so frequently. You can also use it to give a boost of color in a selected area of your hair. I sometimes apply a different color of conditioner to my ends for a faux dip-dye look. This was Ion Color Brilliance Fuchsia on top of a more natural auburn base.

Below is my simple recipe for vibrant reds. Explore the semi-perm cream colors at your local beauty supply store. Any dye that does not require a developer can be used to create your own shade of color depositing conditioner.

You Will Need....

Semi permanent hair color of your choice (does not require a developer)

Conditioner (big cheap bottles work great for this)

Re-sealable plastic tub

Instrument for stirring (tint brush, plastic spoon, etc)

Find a plastic container. Make sure it is easy to use and cleansed of its previous contents.

Squeeze in the amount of hair color you would normally use for one full head dye application. In my case this is 1/2 tube Ion Color Brilliance red and 1/2 tube magenta. Cover with a very generous amount of your cheap conditioner. You want a 3:1 ratio of conditioner to color. This filled my tub a little over half way.

Mix until creamy and color is consistent throughout. The color will appear just slightly diluted due to all the extra conditioner stretching out the dye. *Bonus: Add a few drops of peppermint essential oil to the cream for some extra wake up zing in the morning. This is just an option if you like the smell. It will not affect the function of the conditioner at all.

Seal container and place in the shower for easy use every other day. Apply a palm full to your scalp/ bans and another palm full to your ends. If you have longhair, you will get a more even distribution by loosely splitting your hair into pigtails and applying a portion to each half of your ends.

Be mindful to spread it all around with you hands, working it through the hair evenly. If you tend to slap it on your head in the same place every day, you'll end up with some places that are noticeable brighter than others (I made this mistake in middle school and earned the nickname "Spot"). Gloves are not needed unless you prefer it. The color conditioner may stain your hands immediately after use, but it will go away by the time you're finished with your shower.

Try to leave the conditioner on for at least 2-3 minutes. Hold your head out of the water while you scrub your face or shave your legs to give the color conditioner time to deposit pigment. Rise and dry as usual.

Using this color depositing conditioner over the course of a month extends your dye job and eliminates the need to use harsh chemicals on the hair so frequently. I have effectively cut my hair dying in half this year, which makes for much happier hair.

Step 7: Rock Out With Your Color Out

With the science of hair dye under your belt, keeping your 'do looking great is well within your grasp. I hope this write up has helped you identify some solutions for your current color needs and advised you on how to keep your hair ever healthy, whatever the shade!

If you enjoyed this Ible, consider sending a vote in the Dying for Color contest. Feel free to post your hair dye victories and fails in the comments below.

First Prize in the Dyeing for Color Contest

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Hair Color Chemistry

Brush up on the science of hair dye, as you read, think about  the chemical reactions needed to change the color of a person’s hair..

Have you ever spotted someone with neon green hair or watched a celebrity show off their new pastel purple ’do? Maybe you’ve even colored your own locks. No one is born with technicolor tresses—shifting shades requires hair dye.

Hair gets its natural color from a pigment called melanin, which comes in three main forms: brown, black, or red. The amount and type of melanin in a strand of hair determines its specific hue.

Have you ever seen someone with neon green hair? Or a celebrity showing off their new pastel purple ’do? Maybe you’ve even colored your own locks. No one is born with technicolor tresses. To change shades, you need hair dye.

Hair gets its natural color from a pigment called melanin. It comes in three main forms: brown, black, or red. A strand of hair has a certain amount and type of melanin. That determines its color.

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COLOR REMOVER: Bright-colored dye on dark hair can sometimes look dull or drab. That’s why hair stylists apply lightener, a chemical mixed with hydrogen peroxide. This turns hair blond—the ideal base for dye.

For thousands of years, people used a variety of substances, like plants and minerals, to alter their hair’s color. Today, synthetic , or artificial, hair dyes can color natural hair, as well as weaves and extensions, to just about every shade imaginable.

Some dyes are temporary—they provide only a brief color change. These dyes contain large pigment molecules that coat the surface of the hair strand and wash off with a single shampoo.

For thousands of years, people changed their hair’s color. They used different substances to do this, like plants and minerals. Today, we have synthetic , or artificial, hair dyes. They can color natural hair or weaves and extensions just about any shade.

Some dyes are temporary. They change hair color only briefly. These dyes contain large pigment molecules that coat the surface of the hair strand. They wash off with one shampoo.

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PATCH TEST: Chemicals in hair dyes can trigger allergic reactions, like skin irritation and itching. Many stylists will test dye on a small patch of their client’s skin before using it.

For slightly longer-lasting color, there’s semi-permanent dye. It contains smaller pigment molecules, explains Trina Espinoza, a science communicator who hosts the YouTube show “Ms. Beautyphile.”

These molecules can penetrate the hair’s cuticle , or protective outer layer, so the color takes longer to fade.

Semi-permanent dye is for slightly longer-lasting color. It contains smaller pigment molecules, explains Trina Espinoza. She’s a science communicator who hosts the YouTube show “Ms. Beautyphile.” These molecules can enter the hair’s cuticle , or protective outer layer. That’s why the color takes longer to fade. 

“If you really want to commit to a color, you might be ready for the third type of dye—permanent dye,” says Espinoza. It contains ammonia (NH3), which causes the hair’s cuticle to swell and open. A stylist mixes the dye with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a chemical that breaks down melanin and lightens the hair. This allows dye-forming molecules to enter the hair’s cortex , or secondary layer. The new color will remain until the hair grows out.

For the best results, it’s important for people to understand the chemistry of whichever dye they choose, says Valerie George, a hair color expert for salon brand John Paul Mitchell Systems. From bold color to subtler shades, George believes that “dyeing your hair is all about having fun and expressing yourself.”

“If you really want to commit to a color, you might be ready for the third type of dye—permanent dye,” says Espinoza. It contains ammonia (NH 3 ). This chemical causes the hair’s cuticle to swell and open. A stylist mixes the dye with another chemical, hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ). It breaks down melanin and lightens the hair. Then dye-forming molecules can enter the hair’s cortex , or secondary layer. The new color will remain until the hair grows out.

When people choose a dye, they should understand its chemistry. That leads to the best results, says Valerie George. She’s a hair color expert for salon brand John Paul Mitchell Systems. You might choose bold or quieter shades. But George believes that “dyeing your hair is all about having fun and expressing yourself.” 

CONSTRUCTING EXPLANATIONS: Select two types of hair dye described in the article. What are the key similarities and differences in how they work?

What is hair.

The average human scalp contains about 100,000 hairs. Each strand grows out of a tiny pouch below the skin’s surface called a follicle.

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SEBACEOUS GLAND

This organ secretes an oily substance to prevent hair and skin from drying out.

Nerves in the scalp sense hair movement.

This part of the hair sticks out from the surface of the skin.

This part of the hair lies under the skin.

BLOOD VESSELS

Blood carries nutrients to cells at the bottom of the follicle.

Not all hair contains this innermost core. It is usually found in thick or coarse strands.

Hair’s outer layer is made of a tough protein called keratin arranged in overlapping scales.

The hair’s middle layer contains melanin pigments, which create red, black, and brown hair color. Hair with a low level of pigment appears blond.

Continue Your Learning

Many natural substances have been used to color hair throughout history. What spices or fruits do you think might be able to be used as dyes? How could you extract the color from them? Test it out, with an adult’s permission and supervision! Take a small amount of white frosting and try using your chosen spice or fruit to change its color. What happened? Share your results with a friend or family member.

The Science of Hair Coloring

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Hair color is a matter of chemistry. The first safe commercial hair coloring product was created in 1909 by French chemist Eugene Schuller, using the chemical paraphenylenediamine. Hair coloring is very popular today, with over 75% of women coloring their hair and a growing percentage of men following suit. How does hair coloring work? It's the result of a series of chemical reactions between the molecules in hair and pigments, as well as peroxide and ammonia.

What Is Hair?

Hair is mainly keratin, the same protein found in skin and fingernails. The natural color of hair depends on the ratio and quantities of two other proteins—eumelanin and phaeomelanin. Eumelanin is responsible for brown to black hair shades while phaeomelanin is responsible for golden blond, ginger, and red shades. The absence of either type of melanin produces white/gray hair.

Natural Hair Colorants

People have been coloring their hair for thousands of years using plants and minerals. Some of these natural agents contain pigments (e.g., henna, black walnut shells) while others contain natural bleaching agents or cause reactions that change the color of hair (e.g., vinegar). Natural pigments generally work by coating the hair shaft with color. Some natural colorants last through several shampoos, but they aren't necessarily safer or more gentle than modern formulations. It's difficult to get consistent results using natural colorants, and some people are allergic to the ingredients.

Temporary Hair Color

Temporary or semi-permanent hair colors may deposit acidic dyes onto the outside of the hair shaft or may consist of small pigment molecules that can slip inside the hair shaft, using a small amount of peroxide or none at all. In some cases, a collection of several colorant molecules enters the hair to form a larger complex inside the hair shaft. Shampooing will eventually dislodge temporary hair color. These products don't contain ammonia, meaning the hair shaft isn't opened up during processing and the hair's natural color is retained once the product washes out.

Hair Lightening

Bleach is used to lighten people's hair. The bleach reacts with the melanin in the hair, removing the color through an irreversible chemical reaction. The bleach oxidizes the melanin molecule. The melanin is still present, but the oxidized molecule is colorless. However, bleached hair tends to have a pale yellow tint. The yellow color is the natural color of keratin, the structural protein in hair. Also, bleach reacts more readily with the dark eumelanin pigment than with the phaeomelanin, so some gold or red residual color may remain after lightening . Hydrogen peroxide is one of the most common lightening agents. The peroxide is used in an alkaline solution, which opens the hair shaft to allow the peroxide to react with the melanin.

Permanent Hair Color

The outer layer of the hair shaft, its cuticle, must be opened before permanent color can be deposited into the hair. Once the cuticle is open, the dye reacts with the inner portion of the hair, the cortex, to deposit or remove the color. Most permanent hair coloring products use a two-step process (usually occurring simultaneously) which first removes the original color of the hair and then deposits a new color. It's essentially the same process as lightening except a colorant is then bonded to the hair shaft. Ammonia is the alkaline chemical that opens the cuticle and allows the hair color to penetrate the cortex of the hair. It also acts as a catalyst when the permanent hair color comes together with the peroxide. Peroxide is used as the developer or oxidizing agent . The developer removes pre-existing color. Peroxide breaks chemical bonds in the hair, releasing sulfur, which accounts for the characteristic odor of hair coloring products. As the melanin is decolorized, a new permanent color is bonded to the hair cortex. Various types of alcohols and conditioners may also be present in hair coloring products. The conditioners close the cuticle after coloring to seal in and protect the new color.

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The Chemistry of Hair Colors

Yesterday, I did a talk for a cosmetic science class at the University of Toledo which outlined the hair research I did which eventually resulted in this patent .  It was all about the process of how we went through some basic research to determine why colored hair fades and ways to prevent that from happening.  It was fun to remember that time.  While putting together the research I had to review the chemistry of hair colors.  I noticed that we’ve never really written about that here on Chemists Corner so I figured now would be as good a time as any to do it.

Types of hair color

Natural hair color is the result of two types of melanin pigments , eumelanin which is responsible for the brown and black colors of hair and pheomelanin which creates the orange or blonde hues.  Together, these two molecules are responsible for every hair color on the planet, except for the artificial ones or grey hair which is the absence of any pigment.

There are a number of options for synthetic hair color and these are classified by the types of color molecules used and the length of time that they last.  They include the following

Temporary hair color

• Semi-permanent / demi-permanent hair color
• Permanent hair color

We’ll go through each of these and explain how they work.

Semi-permanent hair color

Semi-permanent hair colors can penetrate the surface of the hair into the cuticle layer.  These products will last for a few more washings than temporary colors but they too will eventually be washed out.  The vast majority of dyes used for semipermanent colors include nitrophenylenediamines, nitroaminophenols and aminoanthraquinones.   The first two compounds create yellow to violet colors while the last provides violet to blue hues.  Semi-permanent hair colors work great for people who just want to experiment with a new color.  They also work well for grey hair coverage.  One of the challenges for semi-permanent colors is that they do not completely cover the natural hair color so this tends to limit the color pallet that is available for the consumer.  That also means hair is not as damaged but it’s a trade off.

When a consumer wants to go lighter in color, one way to permanently do that is to bleach the hair.  Beaching essentially is an oxidation reaction with the hair melanin that causes it to lose color.  Strong bleaching requires a combination of ammonia, hydrogen peroxide and ammonium persulfate.  This will properly open up the hair shaft and break down the melanin.  Hair color is typically described on a 12 point scale with a 12 being ultra blonde and a 1 being black.  The maximum level of bleaching you can achieve with one treatment is a change of a 6-7 level.  Also, once this bleaching is done the hair is permanently changed in color.  New hair at the roots will be the natural hair color but the bleached hair will remain bleached unless otherwise colored.

Permanent hair coloring

The most common hair color is permanent hair coloring.  This process involves a change in hair color that is “permanent” or at least until new hair grows.  The process involves a couple of steps including bleaching out the natural hair color (by 3-4 levels) and adding the new color.  The dyes used are actually dye precursors.  These small molecules are monomers which are able to penetrate into the hair all the way to the cortext.  Common compounds used include p-phenylenediamine and p-aminophenol.  Permanent hair color is a three step process that begins with colorless monomers.

• Oxidation of the monomer to a reactive species via peroxide
• Addition of a coupler to give a dye intermediate
• Oxidation of intermediate to create the final dye

This is a polymerization reaction so the dye molecules become too large to easily come out of the hair shaft upon washing.  Thus, you get a permanent coloring.

The significant issues with this type of coloring is that it damages the hair structure and you have limited colors that can work.  Also, a patch test needs to be done to ensure that the person getting the hair colored does not have a negative reaction.

So, there you have it.  Hair coloring in a nutshell.  Of course, there are many more details but we’ll save that for a future post.

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Hair-raising stuff

By Ian Farrell 2021-12-09T08:35:00+00:00

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Despite the many colours available, hair dye chemistry hasn’t changed much since the 19th century

Humans have been colouring their hair since the stone age, according to some archaeologists. The ancient Egyptians favoured black hair dye and used bolder colours from plant extracts to dye wigs made from their own shaved hair. The Romans and ancient Greeks experimented with a toxic combination of lead oxide and calcium hydroxide, and the Romans required prostitutes to dye their hair yellow to advertise their profession.

Source: © PowerOfForever/Getty Images

Get to the root of how dyes colour our hair

Fast forward to the middle of the 19th century and William Henry Perkin was about to discover the first synthetic dye, mauveine, which revolutionised the fashions of the time. If you liked purple, that is. Fortunately, Perkin’s chemistry professor, August Hofmann, synthesised a derivative – paraphenylenediamine (PPD) – that could be used to create other colours. PPD remains the basis of permanent hair dyes today.

Is that natural?

Before we get to artificial hair dyes, it’s worth taking a moment to consider what gives our hair its natural colour – melanin, the same thing that gives our skin and eyes their colours. Your hair colour is determined by the ratio of two types of melanin: eumelanin and pheomelanin. If you have more eumelanin, your hair will be brown or black. Red hair contains an abundance of pheomelanin. Blonde hair is a result of low melanin levels overall.

Hair is a protein fibre, a bit like wool or silk. We can’t borrow techniques from the textile industry to colour hair for obvious practical reasons (you can’t boil your hair in acid, for instance). Instead, the first stage is to bathe the hair in ammonia, which separates the protective protein layers and allows dye chemicals to penetrate the hair shaft.

Most permanent hair dyes also contain a bleaching agent – usually hydrogen peroxide – which can now access the opened hair shaft. Here it reacts with the melanin, neutralising any natural colour. Stop here and you’ll be left with a look we’re all familiar with: peroxide blonde.

25% of the 2000 respondents said they’d spend over £18,000 on hair colouring during their lifetime

Now it’s time to introduce PPD. In the alkaline conditions provided by the ammonia, the peroxide acts as an oxidising agent, triggering a coupling reaction between two PPD molecules and a dye molecule that’s too big to escape the hair’s protein structure. Trapped here, it gives the hair a permanent brown colour; the hair’s natural hue will only appear again as it grows.

But what if we want a colour other than brown? Just introduce another molecule that will also participate in the coupling reaction and produce a different hue. It’s important to realise that neither of these coupling agents, nor PPD itself, are coloured. The colour only appears once the coupling reaction has taken place. Using different combinations of couplers produces the myriad results available at your local hair salon.

Health and safety

There are some health and safety concerns surrounding all this Victorian dye chemistry. Some ingredients are sensitisers, meaning that after initial exposure any subsequent contact could cause an allergic reaction or (rarely) anaphylactic shock. The EU has categorised 27 hair dye ingredients as sensitisers – 10 of which are classed as ‘extreme’.

There’s also evidence linking hair dye chemistry and cancer. The theory is that the electrophilic species created during the coupling reaction can attack human tissue and damage DNA. While studies have not established any link for those who dye only their hair at home, a minor increase in the incidence of bladder cancer was found for those who use dyes at work all day, which is why gloves are always recommended when handling them to limit exposure to the chemicals. Alternatives have been developed, like 2,5-diaminotoluene, but these are still derived from PPD, and pose similar risks.

Put this in context

Explore the role of nanotoxicologist  Vicki, who examines how tiny nanomaterials present in everyday products interact with our bodies to ensure they are safe to use or consume.

Despite this, hair dye is big business – in a survey, 25% of the 2000 respondents said they’d spend over £18,000 on hair colouring during their lifetime. So, if you’re looking to shave a few quid, then it might be time to get the clippers out …

Watch the TikTok video  to explore more in the colourful world of hair dyes.

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Science in School

Colour to dye for understand article.

Author(s): Rebecca Guenard

The basic chemistry of hair dyes has changed little over the past century, but what do we know about the risks of colouring our hair, and why do we do it?

Every two months Barclay Cunningham goes through a process that begins with taking an antihistamine tablet. After a few hours, she smears a thick layer of antihistamine cream across her forehead, around her ears and over her neck. Finally, she shields the area with ripped-up plastic carrier bags.

All this so she can dye her hair.

It didn’t start out this way. Cunningham coloured her hair for a decade without any problems. Then, one day, she noticed that the skin on her ears was inflamed after she’d dyed her hair. She fashioned plastic bag earmuffs and carried on colouring. But the allergic reaction persisted, so her precautions became more elaborate. Now if she dyes her hair without these measures, she gets an itchy, blistery, pus-filled rash that lasts for weeks.

Suffering for the sake of tinted tresses is not a modern-day phenomenon. Humans have dyed for thousands of years (see box ). But the chemical history of modern hair dyes reveals that, while they were once part of an innovative industry, progress has stalled, and today they rely on 125-year-old chemistry.

A long tradition

Archaeological evidence shows that the use of dyes by humans dates back to the Palaeolithic period. Early humans used the iron oxide in soil to decorate their dwellings, textiles and bodies with the colour red. It wasn’t too long before they applied the dyes to their heads.

Ancient Egyptians also dyed their hair, but rarely did so while it was on their heads. They shaved it off, then curled and braided it to wigs to protect their bald heads from the sun. Analysing hair samples has also revealed that the Greeks and Romans used permanent black hair dye. They mixed substances that we know today as lead oxide and calcium hydroxide to create a lead sulfide nanoparticle, which forms when the chemicals interact with sulfur linkages in keratin, a protein in hair. When the direct application of lead proved too toxic, the Romans changed their black dye formula to one made by fermenting leeches for two months in a lead vessel. Not as pleasant as today’s dyes!

The magic of mixing

Understanding the dyes used on hair is not as simple as understanding the colour wheel. We learn in art class that any colour can be obtained by mixing the three primary colours of red, yellow and blue. If you want orange, you mix yellow and red; if you want purple, you combine red and blue; and if you want brown, you mix all three.

Beauticians are taught the same thing when it comes to hair – that brown dye is a combination of three different dyes. “That’s just fictitious information,” says Tom Despenza. Tom has years of experience working in research and development at Clairol. He is now retired and owns his own hair colour company.

Instead, says Tom, “brown hair colour is made up of two chemicals.” Both chemicals are colourless but they produce brown through a chemical reaction that occurs when they’re combined.

Hairdressers are not applying pigments (at least not in the case of permanent hair dye), they are applying a mixture of chemicals to initiate dye formation. The individual molecules have to be linked together before they emit colour, so hair dyes have to sit on the head for 30 minutes to allow this reaction to occur.

A colourful discovery

In the mid-1800s, English chemist William Henry Perkin serendipitously synthesised the first non-natural dye: starting with coal tar, he was hoping to produce the malaria drug quinine but instead created mauve. His discovery revolutionised the textile industry and launched the petrochemical industry. Natural dyes just didn’t have the staying power and vivid colours of the dye that Perkin created. Never before had such a steadfast dye been found.

Soon after, August Hofmann (Perkin’s chemistry professor) noticed that a dye he had derived from coal tar formed a colour when exposed to air. The molecule responsible was para-phenylenediamine, or PPD, the foundation of most permanent hair dyes today.

Although hair is a protein fibre, like wool, the dyeing process for textiles cannot be duplicated on the head. To get wool to take a dye, you must boil the wool in an acidic solution for an hour. The equivalent for hair is to bathe it in the chemical ammonia. Ammonia separates the protective protein layers, allowing dye compounds to penetrate the hair shaft and access the underlying pigment, melanin.

Melanin is what gives colour to human skin, eyes and hair. It’s the ratio of two types of melanin – eumelanin and pheomelanin – that determines your natural hair colour. And it’s the size and shape that the melanin molecules form when they cluster in the hair shaft that gives the unique tones within a hair colour. For example, blonds and brunettes have about the same ratio of eumelanin molecules to pheomelanin molecules, but blonds have fewer molecules overall. Naturally blond hair also contains smaller melanin clusters, which reflect light more than the larger clusters found in dark hair.

Along with ammonia, hair dye formulations contain hydrogen peroxide, a bleaching agent. Peroxide serves two purposes: it reacts with the melanin in hair, extinguishing its natural colour, and oxidises PPD molecules to create larger dye molecules. The trapped colour-emitting molecule will remain in the hair, too big to escape.

Early on, dye chemists realised that if they added a secondary molecule, called a coupler, they could manipulate the resulting pigment – a carbon here, a couple of nitrogens there – and multiply the colour choices that were available with PPD alone. Different methods have been proposed, but beauty product manufacturers have yet to accept a permanent hair colour formula without PPD or its related compound p-aminophenol.

Harmful heritage?

For 125 years, the oxidative reaction of PPD has been the extent of hair dye technology. This is “crazy” according to David Lewis, emeritus professor at the University of Leeds in the UK. “Now, I know a lot about dyes and dye stuffs in the textile industry. We would never dream of using this on textiles,” he says. “Primitive, archaic, all these things come to mind. Why do they persist on putting it on human heads?”

Lewis retired from academia ten years ago to launch  Green Chemicals , a company that aims to develop safer consumer goods. His company introduced a more environmentally friendly flame retardant, and now Lewis wants to overhaul hair dyes.

One issue is how dyes work: Lewis says that the colour molecules become electron scavengers. This need for electrons is not exclusively fulfilled by other dye molecules, so the electron scavengers also aggressively pursue the skin – causing allergic reactions and potentially damaging DNA.

Globally, haircare products comprise the largest portion of the beauty industry and secure nearly a quarter of the industry’s revenue. In the USA, for example, an estimated 70 per cent of women use hair colouring products.

Reflecting on the heritage of hair dyes, you can’t help but ask: why do so many people still colour their hair? Why would someone go through the rigmarole and tolerate the expense, the itching and the smell? Whatever drives our desire to change the colour of our hair, one thing is certain: people have deep emotional ties to what covers their scalps.

This is clearly true for Barclay Cunningham. At just 12 years old, she began experimenting with her hair and as an adult, she searched for years for the right hair colour. “Never once has it occurred to me to simply not dye my hair,” Barclay says. “The ‘me’ of hair colour happens to come out of a box. The ‘me’ that grew out of my head was not right.” 

Acknowledgement

This article is an edited version of an article first published by Mosaic w1 , the long form journalism site from the Wellcome Trust.

Web References

• w1 – The full article can be read on the Mosaic website .
• For a more detailed look at the chemistry behind different coloured hair dyes, Compound Chemistry has created a graphic you can download here.
• The history and synthesis of mauve is outlined for teachers at the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Learn Chemistry site. Download the PDF.
• Farusi, G (2012), Indigo: recreating Pharaoh’s dye . Science in School 24 : 40–46.

Rebecca Guenard is a genuine maths and science nerd with a PhD in chemistry to prove it. She served a tour in academia before finding fulfilment as a science writer. Now she flits from covering one fascinating chemistry topic to the next. She is currently exploring health and beauty chemistry. She has written for The Chemical Heritage Foundation, Kids Discover and Scientific American. You can see examples of her mind wanderings at  atomic-o-licious.com . Or follow her on Twitter  @BGuenard .

Many scientists are normally seduced by chemistry’s explosions or colour changes. The article shows just how useful this interest can be and why it needs to be encouraged.

The article tells the story of the development of dye – highlighting Perkins’ discovery of mauve and showing how this accidental discovery has allowed the formation of many consumer products.

This quirky tale and history of dyes and colour chemistry could lead to a study of the chemical synthesis of organic dyes and of the effect of using them. A challenge would be to see if school chemists can synthesise dyes that could be used in the art department. Teachers could also use the article to link in with relevant topics in history (history of medicines/cosmetics) and art (methods of textile and fibre dyeing).

Graham Armstrong, Kinross High School, Scotland

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How to Dye Hair with Kool Aid

Last Updated: February 14, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Ambia Elms . Ambia Elms is a Master Hairstylist and Owner of olive + elm Hair Salon in Gilbert. Arizona. With 27 years of industry experience, she specializes in short to medium-textured haircuts and gender-affirming hair services. Ambia and her team pride themselves on their sustainability initiatives and their status as a Certified Sustainable Salon by Green Circle Salons. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 5,089,293 times.

If you want to experiment with a different hair color but don't want to make a long-term commitment, Kool-Aid might be the perfect solution! All you have to do is combine hot water, hair conditioner , and unsweetened Kool-Aid to create a dye paste. You can apply the paste to achieve all-over color, or you can paint streaks of color into your hair. If you want to dip-dye your tips , mix up a home-made dye bath instead. Keep in mind that different colors and quantities of Kool-Aid will create a range of results. Remember to wear gloves to avoid staining your hands as you transform your tresses!

Preparing the Kool-Aid Dye

• If you do stain part of your skin, there are a few ways to remove the Kool-Aid stains .

• Note that the colors can appear differently on different hair types and base colors. For instance, grape Kool-Aid will leave a light pinkish violet on light blonde hair when left on for just 30 minutes. [3] X Research source However, grape Kool-Aid will show up as a deep reddish purple on dark brown hair after 1 hour.
• If you have brown hair, vibrant reds usually show up the best. You can also try deep purple and dark blue! You won’t be able to get a lighter color than your natural shade without first bleaching your hair, though. [4] X Research source

• If you’re not sure how your hair will take to the dye, start with just 1 packet. You can always follow up with another dye session using a few more packets to build up the color.
• If you’re mixing colors , stir together 2 packets. For instance, try black cherry mixed with strawberry for a vibrant red, or strawberry and grape for red-violet. You could also try blue raspberry and lemon-lime to create turquoise. [6] X Research source

• A good rule of thumb is to use 1 US tbsp (15 mL) of water per packet of Kool-Aid.
• Try not to add too much water, or else the mixture will get too runny to paint onto your hair.

• The creamy consistency of your dye paste will make the dye easier to handle and apply to your hair. Plus the conditioner will help the dye spread through your hair. [9] X Research source

• Also protect your workspace with another towel or garbage bag in case any dye drips onto your chair, the table, or the floor.

Dyeing All of Your Hair

• Try dividing your hair vertically into left and right segments, and then dividing each of these into 3 horizontal sections (top, middle, and bottom).
• Alternatively, divide your hair into left, right, and center sections and work your way from side to side.
• Or, start by exposing the hair at the nape of your neck and piling the rest of your hair up at your crown. Pull out small sections as you work your way from your nape up to your crown.

• Tie back each dyed section and proceed until all sections are evenly coated.
• All of your hair must be saturated with dye otherwise the powder will just wash out, without coloring your hair.
• If you’re dyeing your own hair, you might want to enlist the help of a friend. It can be hard to evenly coat the hair at the back of your head.

• Secure the plastic wrap with tape for extra hold.
• This step is especially useful if you plan to leave the dye on your hair for a few hours.

• If you’ve used more Kool-Aid packets, it’s ok to leave the dye on for a shorter amount of time.

• It may take between 10 and 20 minutes to get the water to run clear.
• Warm or hot water may more quickly wash out some of the pigment from your newly-dyed strands.
• Don’t use shampoo when you rinse out the dye. This could wash out and fade some of the color. [15] X Research source

• To make your temporary color last as long as possible, wash your hair in cold water instead of hot water. [16] X Research source
• It’s ok to use warm water and heat styling tools, but keep in mind that the heat will cause the dye to fade faster.
• You may need to experiment with the dye process a few times to get the balance right for your hair color. Just remember that if you have darker hair , the effects will be more subtle.

Adding Streaks of Color

• Think about how many streaks you want to add to your hair, and cut out 1 piece of saran wrap or foil for each streak before you get started.
• If you’re creating narrow highlights , try picking up and painting a few thin strands on the same piece of saran wrap or foil.

• Support the strands from behind with your hand that’s beneath the piece of saran wrap or foil.

• If your hair is longer than the piece of wrap or foil, fold up the tips of your hair into a little bundle close to your roots before folding up the foil.

• If you’re using saran wrap, try using a hair tie to create little bundles out of each section. [19] X Research source

• If you have a lot of streaks, consider wrapping your hair in a plastic bag or with a few long pieces of saran wrap to hold them in place while you wait.

• If you want a really saturated hue, leave the dye on for 5 hours.
• If you have light hair and you just want a light tint, don’t leave the dye on for longer than 1 hour.

Dip-Dyeing the Ends in a Dye Bath

• Choose whichever Kool-Aid color you want, or mix 2 together for a custom shade.
• Use more packets for more saturated color, especially if you have dark hair.

• Try dipping your hair into the dye bath a few times for a deeper color. This also helps if you want to create a softer division between your dip-dyed ends and the rest of your hair.

• Make sure you’re still wearing gloves during this process, as the Kool-Aid can stain your hands.

• If you want to leave the dye on for up to 5 hours, the method of painting on a dye paste containing conditioner would be a better choice.
• Conditioner keeps the dye from drying out, whereas the dye bath liquid will evaporate after a short while.

• Once the dye is rinsed off, air-dry or blow-dry your hair to see the final results.

Community Q&A

• If you have light colored hair, don’t try to dye your hair light blue or dark blue, as it will come out as green. Thanks Helpful 43 Not Helpful 6
• Kool-Aid dye will take very well to chemically-treated hair. Be aware that your Kool-Aid dye job could last just as long as a semi-permanent dye if your hair is especially porous and damaged. Thanks Helpful 27 Not Helpful 5
• Before you dye your hair, protect the sides of your face from being stained by applying some petroleum jelly or Scotch tape around your hairline. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 1

Tips from our Readers

• If the Koolaid has stained your sink or bathtub, use a little bit of bleach to remove it. Be careful not to get it on your clothes or skin.

• Some of the red coloring agents are more permanent, so be careful not to spill the product onto fabric or carpeting as you’ll be left with a stubborn stain. Thanks Helpful 33 Not Helpful 4
• If you have a sensitive scalp, this may not be a suitable activity. Test a small area first to see if you have a reaction to the chemicals in the Kool-Aid. Thanks Helpful 27 Not Helpful 3
• Kool-Aid dyes tend to temporarily stain some bathtubs. Thanks Helpful 28 Not Helpful 5
• Kool-Aid dye may leave a noticeable odor in your hair, especially if you use sweetened powder. Thanks Helpful 28 Not Helpful 8
• Stay out of the water once you’ve dyed your tresses with Kool-Aid. The color will definitely run onto your clothes if you’re caught in the rain! [23] X Research source Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

Things You'll Need

• Disposable gloves
• 1 or more packets/pouches of unsweetened Kool-Aid
• Conditioner
• Hair dye brush (optional)
• Saran wrap or plastic bag
• Aluminum foil (optional)
• Tape (optional)
• Paper towel (optional)

You Might Also Like

Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about hair dye, check out our in-depth interview with Ambia Elms .

• ↑ https://spoonuniversity.com/recipe/kool-aid-as-hair-dye
• ↑ https://www.mcgill.ca/oss/article/food-quirky-science/coloring-hair
• ↑ https://haircolorcode.com/kool-aid-hair-dye
• ↑ https://people.com/style/we-tried-it-dyeing-our-hair-with-kool-aid/
• ↑ https://asubtlerevelry.com/how-to-temporarily-dye-your-hair/
• ↑ https://youtu.be/V8ECXJvhDLo?t=201
• ↑ https://youtu.be/V8ECXJvhDLo?t=207
• ↑ https://youtu.be/V8ECXJvhDLo?t=218
• ↑ https://youtu.be/bnLrLChZHBs?t=157
• ↑ https://youtu.be/bnLrLChZHBs?t=115

About This Article

To dye your hair with Kool-Aid, start by mixing Kool-Aid powder, conditioner, and a little hot water in a bowl to make a paste. You can adjust the number of Kool-Aid packets you use based on how vibrant you want your hair color to be. Then, divide your hair into sections to make it easier to work with, and apply the Kool-Aid paste to each section. Start at the roots and work your way down to the ends. Once your hair is completely covered, wrap it in plastic wrap and let it sit for 15 minutes to 5 hours, depending on how saturated you want the color to be. When you're ready, rinse out the paste with cold water, and you're done! To learn how to give yourself colored streaks using Kool-Aid, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Exploring Fun And Colorful Hair Experiments: Trying Out Jello As A Hair Dye

• Last updated Jan 12, 2024
• Difficulty Intemediate

• Category Dye

Have you ever found yourself shopping for hair dye, only to be overwhelmed by the multitude of options and chemicals? Well, what if I told you there's a natural alternative that might just make your hair color dreams come true? Yes, you heard it right - jello! While that colorful dessert may be known for its wiggly and tasty qualities, some adventurous individuals have explored its potential as a hair dye. So, grab your spoons and let's dive into the sweet world of jello hair dyeing!

What You'll Learn

Can i use jello to dye my hair, what are the ingredients in jello that could potentially dye hair, is jello a safe and effective alternative to traditional hair dyes, will using jello to dye my hair have any unusual or unintended effects, are there any specific instructions or precautions i should follow if i want to try using jello as a hair dye.

When it comes to dyeing your hair, there are countless options available. From traditional hair dyes to natural alternatives, people are always looking for new and creative ways to change up their hair color. One unconventional option that has gained some attention is using Jello as a hair dye. But can you really use Jello to dye your hair? Let's dive into the science, examine personal experiences, and explore the process step-by-step.

The Science Behind Hair Dyeing

Hair dyeing involves a chemical process known as oxidation. Traditional hair dyes contain chemicals, such as hydrogen peroxide and ammonia, which penetrate the hair shaft, break down the natural pigments, and deposit new color molecules. Jello, on the other hand, is primarily made up of gelatin, sugar, and flavoring, none of which have the ability to penetrate the hair shaft or alter its color.

Personal Experiences

While there is no scientific evidence supporting the idea of using Jello as a hair dye, some individuals have claimed to have success with it. These anecdotal accounts suggest that mixing Jello powder with conditioner creates a temporary color that can be applied to the hair. However, it's essential to note that without the ability to penetrate the hair shaft, the color outcome may vary, and the results may not be long-lasting.

The Step-By-Step Process

If you want to experiment with Jello as a hair dye, here is a step-by-step process to follow:

• Choose your Jello flavor wisely. The more vibrant the color, the more likely it is to show up on your hair. Shades like red, purple, or blue tend to offer more noticeable results.
• Mix the Jello powder with a white conditioner of your choice. The ratio should be approximately one part Jello to three parts conditioner.
• Apply the Jello mixture to clean, damp hair. It's advisable to perform a patch test first to ensure you don't have any adverse reactions.
• Comb the mixture through your hair to ensure even distribution.
• Let the Jello mixture sit on your hair for at least 30 minutes.
• Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs clear.
• Condition and style your hair as usual.

Remember that the results may vary depending on your hair type, initial color, and the specific Jello flavor used. It's also important to consider that Jello contains sugar, which can be sticky and may attract bugs or leave residue on your hair.

In Conclusion

While it may seem tempting to experiment with Jello as a hair dye, the scientific evidence suggests that its effectiveness is limited. The best way to achieve long-lasting and vibrant hair color is through traditional hair dyes formulated specifically for that purpose. However, if you're looking for a fun and temporary way to spice up your hair for a special event or costume party, using Jello as a hair dye may provide some temporary and playful results. Just remember to thoroughly wash out the Jello and consult a professional if you have any concerns or questions.

Exploring Options: How to Dye Black Hair Blue Without Bleach

You may want to see also

Jello is a popular dessert that comes in various flavors and colors. Many people have experimented with using jello as a temporary hair dye because of its vibrant shades and easy application process. However, not all jello flavors contain the same ingredients that can dye hair. Let's take a closer look at the ingredients found in jello and which ones could potentially dye hair.

Jello is primarily made of gelatin, sugar, and artificial flavorings. The gelatin in jello is what gives it its signature texture and allows it to set into a solid form. Gelatin is derived from collagen, a protein found in animal bones and connective tissues. It is odorless, tasteless, and colorless, making it a perfect base for adding artificial flavors and colors.

The artificial flavors and colors used in jello are what give it its vibrant and appealing appearance. These artificial ingredients are often made from synthetic compounds that are safe for consumption. However, when applied to hair, they can potentially stain the strands.

One of the key ingredients in jello that can potentially dye hair is the artificial coloring. Jello comes in a wide array of colors, including red, orange, green, blue, and purple. These colors are achieved by adding food dyes like red 40, yellow 5, and blue 1. When applied to hair, these artificial dyes can transfer their color onto the strands and temporarily dye them.

It's important to note that not all jello flavors contain the same artificial dyes. Some flavors, like lemon or lime, may not contain artificial dyes at all and therefore may not have the same dyeing effect on hair. It's essential to read the ingredient list of the jello you are considering using to determine if it contains the necessary dyes for hair coloring.

When using jello as a temporary hair dye, it's important to follow proper application techniques. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to dye your hair with jello:

• Prepare the jello mixture: Follow the instructions on the jello packet to prepare the mixture. Make sure to dissolve the jello completely in hot water and allow it to cool before applying it to your hair.
• Protect your clothing and skin: Cover your shoulders and wear old clothes or a salon cape to protect them from potential stains. Apply petroleum jelly or a barrier cream along your hairline, neck, and ears to create a protective barrier against staining.
• Apply the jello mixture: Using a tint brush or gloved hands, apply the jello mixture to your hair. Start from the roots and work your way down to the ends, ensuring all strands are evenly coated.
• Cover your hair: Once your hair is fully coated, cover it with a shower cap or plastic wrap to prevent the jello from dripping or smudging while it sets.
• Let it set: Leave the jello on your hair for the recommended amount of time specified in the jello packet instructions. This usually ranges from 15 to 30 minutes.
• Rinse and condition: After the desired processing time, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove the jello. Follow up with a conditioner to restore moisture to your hair.
• Style as desired: Once your hair is dry, style it as usual. You should notice a temporary color change in your hair, which will gradually fade with subsequent washes.

It's important to keep in mind that jello is not a professional hair dye and may not produce the same long-lasting or predictable results. It's always recommended to do a patch test before applying jello to your entire head of hair to check for any adverse reactions or unexpected color outcomes.

In conclusion, the ingredients in jello that could potentially dye hair are the artificial coloring agents used to achieve vibrant colors. Not all jello flavors contain the same dyeing ingredients, so it's essential to check the jello packet's ingredient list before using it as a hair dye. When using jello as a temporary hair dye, following proper application techniques and conducting a patch test are necessary to ensure desired results and minimize potential risks.

Can Hair Reject Dye: Myths and Facts Explained

Many people today are looking for natural and less damaging alternatives to traditional hair dyes. One unusual option that has gained popularity in recent years is using jello as a hair dye. While this may sound like a fun and quirky idea, it is important to consider whether jello is a safe and effective alternative.

From a scientific standpoint, jello is primarily made up of gelatin, sugar, and artificial flavors and colors. The gelatin is derived from collagen, a protein found in animal skin and bones. The artificial colors used in jello can vary, but they are typically made from chemicals that may not be approved for use on the scalp. These chemicals can potentially cause irritation, allergic reactions, and even damage to the hair and scalp.

Some people claim to have positive experiences using jello as a hair dye, but it is important to approach these anecdotes with caution. Without scientific research and testing, it is difficult to determine the true effects of jello on the hair and scalp. What may work for one person may not work for another, and the long-term effects of using jello as a hair dye are unknown.

If you do decide to try using jello as a hair dye, it is important to proceed with caution and take certain steps to minimize potential risks. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Choose a flavor and color of jello that you would like to use as a hair dye. Keep in mind that darker colors may be more noticeable on the hair.
• Dissolve the jello powder in hot water according to the package instructions. Make sure the mixture is well combined and smooth.
• Allow the jello mixture to cool to a comfortable temperature. Test a small amount on your skin to make sure it does not cause any irritation or allergic reactions.
• Apply the jello mixture to your hair, making sure to thoroughly saturate each strand. Use gloves to protect your hands and avoid staining your skin.
• Leave the jello mixture on your hair for the recommended amount of time, usually around 20-30 minutes. This will allow the color to develop and adhere to the hair.
• Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water until the water runs clear. Avoid using shampoo or conditioner immediately after dyeing your hair with jello, as this can potentially remove the color.

While using jello as a hair dye may seem like a fun and harmless experiment, it is important to remember that the chemicals and artificial colors in jello may not be suitable for use on the scalp. It is always best to consult with a professional hairstylist or dermatologist before trying any unconventional hair dye methods.

In conclusion, jello may offer a temporary and unconventional way to dye your hair, but it is important to approach this trend with caution. Without scientific research and testing, it is difficult to determine the safety and effectiveness of using jello as a hair dye. It is always best to consult with a professional and consider more natural and established alternatives for coloring your hair.

Preserving the Power: Can Hair Dye That's Been Mixed Be Saved?

Using jello to dye your hair may seem like a fun and creative idea, but it is important to understand the potential effects it can have on your hair. While jello can provide temporary color, it may also lead to some unexpected and undesirable outcomes.

Firstly, it is important to note that jello is not specifically formulated for hair dye purposes. It is a dessert product made primarily for consumption, so using it on your hair could result in some unintended consequences. The ingredients in jello, such as artificial flavors, sweeteners, and food dyes, may not be compatible with hair and scalp health.

When applying jello to your hair, it is likely to provide a temporary color change. However, the actual result may vary depending on your hair type and color. For instance, people with light or blonde hair may experience more noticeable color changes compared to those with dark or black hair. The pigmentation of the jello may not be strong enough to drastically alter the color of darker hair.

Additionally, jello does not contain the necessary chemicals to penetrate the hair shaft and permanently change the color like traditional hair dyes. This means that the color will likely wash out after a few washes or fade significantly over time. If you are looking for a long-lasting hair color change, jello may not be the most effective method.

Furthermore, using jello as a hair dye may have other unintended effects on your hair. The sugar content in jello can make your hair sticky and difficult to manage. It may also attract dirt and dust, leading to a less clean and healthy appearance. Additionally, some food dyes used in jello might stain your scalp or skin temporarily.

Before attempting to use jello as a hair dye, it is crucial to consider the potential risks and weigh them against the desired outcome. If you are concerned about the effects jello may have on your hair and scalp, it is advisable to conduct a patch test on a small section of hair or seek professional advice from a hairstylist.

Overall, while using jello to dye your hair may be a fun and temporary way to experiment with color, it is important to consider the potential risks and limitations. Remember to prioritize the health and well-being of your hair and scalp, and consult a professional if you have any concerns.

Can Hair Dye Cause a Fever? Exploring the Possible Link between Hair Dye and Elevated Body Temperature

Jello is a popular gelatin-based dessert that comes in many flavors and colors. It may seem like a fun idea to use jello as a hair dye, especially if you're looking for a temporary and vibrant hair color. However, there are a few things you should know and consider before embarking on this experiment.

First and foremost, it's essential to understand that jello is not specifically designed or formulated for use as a hair dye. This means that using jello on your hair could have unpredictable and potentially undesired results. Additionally, the ingredients in jello may not be safe or suitable for use on hair and scalp.

If you still decide to proceed, here are some precautions and instructions you should follow:

• Choose the right flavor and color: Jello comes in various flavors and colors, so make sure to choose one that matches the color you desire for your hair. Keep in mind that jello colors may appear differently on your hair than they do in the package.
• Prepare your hair: Before applying jello to your hair, make sure it is clean and thoroughly dry. Avoid using any styling products, as they may interfere with the jello's ability to adhere to your hair.
• Test a small strand: Before applying jello to your entire head of hair, it's crucial to do a patch test on a small strand. This will help you determine how the color will look on your hair and whether you may have any adverse reactions.
• Mix the jello: Follow the instructions on the jello package to prepare the mixture. However, instead of using cold water, use hot water to dissolve the jello fully. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before applying it to your hair.
• Apply the jello: Section your hair and apply the jello mixture evenly, starting from the roots and working your way to the ends. Make sure each strand is saturated with the mixture. If you want to create patterns or specific designs, use a brush or comb to apply the jello.
• Let it sit: Once you've applied the jello, cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap to prevent the mixture from dripping or staining your clothes. Leave it on for the recommended time specified on the jello package.
• Rinse and condition: After the recommended time has passed, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Follow up with a conditioner to restore moisture to your hair.
• Assess the results: Once your hair is dry, assess the color to see if it meets your expectations. Keep in mind that the color may fade quickly, especially after the first wash, as jello doesn't penetrate the hair shaft like traditional hair dyes.

It's important to note that using jello as a hair dye is considered experimental and may not yield the desired results or be safe for everyone. If you have any concerns or experience any adverse reactions, it's best to consult a professional hairstylist or a dermatologist.

In conclusion, using jello as a hair dye can be a fun and creative experiment. However, it's crucial to approach it with caution and follow the precautions and instructions provided. Remember, the color may not be long-lasting, and the ingredients may not be suitable for everyone. If in doubt, it's always best to consult a professional.

Dyeing Your Hair Golden Blonde Over Red: What You Need to Know

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How to Let Kids Experiment with Hair Color

Even the youngest of us want to change our hair color  every now and then. But when it comes to your kids, you may not know how to go about helping them achieve their hair dreams . Is it okay to dye a child’s hair? Well, know this: Just because your son or daughter wants to switch up their ‘do doesn’t mean they have to suffer from hair damage . Quite the opposite—there are actually temporary hair dyes and hair colors for kids that you can use to let your child experiment with fun hair hues, without changing their hair permanently. Want to get your family in on the colorful fun? Read on to learn about our best temporary hair colors that kids can use, along with other fun ways to let your kids play with color without permitting a permanent rainbow mane.

THE BEST WAY TO HAVE FUN WITH HAIR COLOR FOR KIDS

Wondering what type of hair color is good for kids? Look no further than temporary hair color products. This type of hair dye washes out in just one shampoo , and there’s no need for bleach, so you won’t have to worry about damaging their strands. The best part? Your kids can try blue hair one day, wash, then rock pink hair the next—and you don’t have to worry about it being a permanent change! Pretty great, right?

If you’re ready to introduce your kids to some temporary hair color fun—it can be a great at-home activity—allow us to introduce you to our best temporary hair colors: the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color and L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color Spray . Both lines come in an array of shades that wash out in one shampoo. Your child can rock one, two, or five!

To use hair makeup… place a towel around their shoulders to protect clothing. With your fingertips, apply a dime-sized amount onto a thin, dry, strand of hair—no gloves needed. Comb or brush the hair to distribute the hair makeup. Air dry or blow-dry your child's hair, then style as desired.

To use a hair color spray… shake well before each use. Hold the can four to six inches from dry hair and spray. Wait a few minutes for the color to dry completely. Don't spray too much at once—the color will be more visible as it dries.

Want inspiration for how to apply temporary hair color for kids? While there’s no right or wrong option, we happen to love the look of dip-dye ends. Here’s How to Dip Dye Your Hair at Home . You can also help your kids apply temporary hair color to get the look of highlights, ombré hair, half and half hair , a peek-a-boo color , or pretty much anything else they can dream up!

3 OTHER OPTIONS FOR LETTING KIDS EXPERIMENT WITH HAIR COLOR

If temporary hair color isn’t right for your family, there are a few other ways you can let your children experiment with sporting a colorful mane. Here are three worth considering:

Option #1. Use colorful extensions. If your child wants to add a few colorful strands throughout their mane, you can always purchase a few colorful clip-in extensions . These can be placed in their hair in the morning and removed at night for colored hair sans damage.

Option #2. Play with wigs. Does your child want an all-over color change? Let them try on a colorful wig for the day! Similar to extensions, this will give them a temporary change during the daytime, and the wig can be removed before bed. Wigs are also a great accessory to have on hand for playtime. Keep a few colorful shades on hand to enhance dress-up time and playing make-believe.

Option #3. Spritz on hair glitter. As an alternative to hair color sprays, you can add a bit of color to your child’s mane with colorful hair glitter . This type of glitzy hairspray washes out in one shampoo and adds colorful sparkle throughout strands instead of opaque color—perfect for kids who are already all about glamour.

Next up: Want some more hair inspo for your kids? We’ve got you covered! Have fun with these 50 Hairstyle Ideas for Crazy Hair Day .

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Science Experiments With Shampoo & Conditioner

Science Projects on Hair Dye

Washing and conditioning hair is a daily process just like brushing your teeth. Is shampoo and conditioner actually keeping your hair healthy and looking good? Both shampoo and conditioner have chemicals that can affect the strength and flexibility of your hair. Creating experiments will test to see if these chemicals are actually beneficial or do more damage to your hair that just using water alone.

Hair Strength and Shampoo

Shampoos contain various chemicals, including sodium laureth sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine and selenium sulfide. Purchase five brands of shampoo containing at least one of these chemicals. Gather a small sample of hair from a hair brush or pull a few strands to wash and make six test groups, five for the shampoo and one of unwashed hair. Use the same amount of hair, shampoo, water and let each dry for the same amount of time during the experiment. Tie one end of the hair to a ruler and the other a paper clip. Add weights to the paper clip until the hair breaks. The shampoo that breaks first damages the hair most. Which chemicals seemed to be linked to the most damaged hair?

Shampoo Test Drive

Select five brands of shampoo that are advertised to work with your style of hair. Styles include dry, oily and frizzy. Wash your hair with each brand of shampoo for two weeks. Create a questionnaire to complete after every wash, including questions such as: "How clean does the hair feel?" "How would you rate the 'shine' and 'body'?" Use a digital camera and take a picture of your hair each day after washing. Compare the results of the experiment by reviewing the questionnaires. Have other individuals complete the same experiment to see if the results of their questionnaires line up with yours.

Conditioner Test

Compare how the elasticity and strength of a hair increases, comparing hair soaked in conditioner and hair soaked in cysteine, which is an amino acid sometimes added to conditioners. Place strands of hair in containers with 2 tsp. of water and conditioner and let sit for 10 minutes. Remove the hair and let it dry. Measure the length of the hair. Run the hair through a paper bag and tape each end between two raised ledges so that the hair is supporting the paper bag. Add weight such as pennies to the bag until the hair gives way. Measure the hair length to determine the amount of stretch or flexibility and weight. Repeat the experiment with cysteine-soaked hair and hair soaked in water only. Which hair treatment was the most flexible and strong?

Does Conditioner Matter

Purchase a favorite brand of shampoo and conditioner and also a bottle of two-in-one, which contains both shampoo and conditioner. Create a questionnaire for washing your hair including the topics of volume, shine and oiliness of your hair after washing. Wash your hair for two weeks without using conditioner. Wash your hair for two weeks using the shampoo and conditioner of your choice and finally use the two-in-one product for the last two weeks. Review your results. Did the conditioner make a significant difference in the look and feel of your hair? Did the two-in-one have the same effect on the hair?

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• v.37(5); 2020 Oct

Evaluation of the effects of hair colouring products on the oxidative status in rats

Hülya nazik.

1 Department of Dermatology, Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam University, Kahramanmaraş, Turkey

Duygun Altintaş Aykan

2 Department of Pharmacology, Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam University, Kahramanmaraş, Turkey

Muhammed Seyithanoğlu

3 Department of Biochemistry, Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam University, Kahramanmaraş, Turkey

Perihan Öztürk

Mehmet kamil mülayim, hakan nazik.

4 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Adana Numune Education and Research Hospital, Adana, Turkey

Introduction

Permanent hair dyes, oxidant creams, and henna are usually used for cosmetic purposes and sometimes for therapeutic expectations. The effects of these products, which are used to change hair colour and can be absorbed percutaneously on the oxidative status is not known exactly.

To investigate the effects of these products, which have various contents, on the oxidative status using an in vivo rat model.

Material and methods

The products used for hair colouring were prepared as recommended for human use and applied to the back region of Wistar albino rats. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) levels were measured in serum and liver samples of rats. The Kruskal-Wallis test showed significant differences in serum SOD, aspartate aminotranspherase (AST), alanine aminotranspherase (ALT), and liver MDA levels among the study groups.

There were statistically significant positive correlations between hepatic MDA values and AST and ALT values. Hair dyes, oxidant creams, and henna were found to have oxidative and hepatotoxic effects. Surprisingly, comparisons revealed that oxidative effect and hepatic toxicity of the oxidant cream and henna were similar. The oxidant cream was more oxidating and hepatotoxic than the hair dye.

Conclusions

Knowing the facts about these products, which are easily accessible to every individual in society and are considered to be innocent, will prevent possible harm.

People change their hair colours with dyes to enhance their beauty and to keep up with fashion. Increased use of hair dyes regardless of the economic and educational situation commonly causes side effects. Commonly used permanent hair dyes are produced as a result of an oxidative process involving arylamines. Oxidative hair dyes have been reported to be associated with contact dermatitis and hair loss [ 1 , 2 ]. Some constituents of hair dyes have been shown to be carcinogenic in animals [ 3 ]. In addition, some constituents were shown to cause dermatitis and hair loss through oxidative stress and epidermal inflammation [ 4 ].

Permanent hair dye, oxidant cream, and henna are used frequently to change hair colour. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of these colour changing agents on oxidative status in serum and liver specimens of rats.

For this study, approval was obtained from the Animal Trials Local Ethics Committee of Sutcu Imam University (session no. 2018/01, decision no. 01, approval date: 13.02.18). Specific national law on the protection of animals was observed. Twenty four female Wistar albino rats (body weight 200–300 g) were randomly selected for this study and four groups were formed as the control ( n = 6), the hair dye ( n = 6), the oxidant cream ( n = 6), and the henna ( n = 6) groups. A 2-week period was given before the experiments to allow the animals get familiar with the environment. Animals were maintained at 22°C ambient temperature and 60 ±5% humidity with access to food and water in a 12-hour light/12-hour dark cycle.

Preparation of the hair dyes

Hair dye (Koleston brand/red colour), oxidant cream (Mosse brand, containing 6% hydrogen peroxide), and henna (Camel brand from India) were purchased at the supermarket. The hair dye was prepared by mixing dye mixture with an oxidant cream included in the product box in a container and made ready for use. The oxidant cream was ready for use when it was purchased. Powdered henna was prepared by homogeneously mixing with a small amount of tap water in a container. The products that changed hair colour were applied to rats using the method they were applied to humans. First, rats were anesthetized intraperitoneally with 80 mg/kg ketamine and 10 mg/kg xylazine. The hair colour modifying products were applied in an area of about 4 × 4 cm on the back of the rats, and thicknesses of 0.3–0.5 cm with hair dye and oxidant cream and 0.5–1 cm with henna were achieved.

Collection of tissue and blood samples

The rats were washed with 25°C tap water for 50 min after application as described in the hair dye and oxidative cream ingredients. After washing, the rats were dried and body heat was stabilized by the radiant heater. An hour after washing, rats in groups which were treated with hair dye and oxidant cream were sacrificed by cervical dislocation. Rats in the henna group were sacrificed by cervical dislocation 7 h after the application. The rats in this group were not washed due to spontaneous separation of henna from the skin over time. After sacrificing, the areas where the hair colour changing products were applied were shaved with a razor blade. Approximately 1 cm skin was excised from each rat. Blood samples were taken by cardiac puncture and centrifuged. Liver tissues were cut to assess oxidative stress parameters. All tissue and blood samples were kept overnight at –80°C for biochemical evaluations.

Biochemical analysis

On the day of analysis, liver samples were homogenized in ice-cold 0.15 M KCl (10%, w/v). The resulting homogenates were centrifuged at 600xG for 10 min at 4°C to remove the crude fractions. Subsequently, the supernatants were centrifuged at 10,000xG for 20 min to obtain the postmitochondrial fraction. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), nitric oxide (NO) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities were determined in the postmitochondrial fraction and serum obtained from the liver. Postmitochondrial fraction protein determinations were performed using bicinonic acid. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were determined in serum and homogenates obtained from the liver. Serum and tissue MDA levels were measured with the method defined by Ohkawa et al . [ 5 ] after minor modifications. SOD activity was measured by the method described by Beyer and Fridovich [ 6 ]. In this method, xanthine and xanthine oxidase are used to form superoxide radicals which react with 2-(4-iodophenyl)-3- (4-nitro phenols phenyl tetrazolium chloride) to form red formazan dye. SOD activity was then measured by the degree of inhibition of this reaction. The Beutler method was used for GSH-Px activity measurement. GSH-Px catalyses the oxidation of reduced glutathione (GSH) to oxidized glutathione (GSH) via H 2 O 2 . GSH-Px activity was determined by the spectrophotometric absorbance difference at 340 nm due to oxidation reaction of NADPH to NADP. Since skin samples were firm, they could not be homogenized and biochemical analysis could not be done.

Statistical analysis

SPSS 16.0 software was used for statistical analysis. Nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test and Mann-Whitney U test were used to assess the differences between continuous data. Box plots were used for group comparisons. The Pearson correlation test was used to evaluate the relationship between two continuous variables. The statistical significance level was accepted as p < 0.05.

The Kruskal-Wallis test showed significant differences in serum SOD, aspartate aminotranspherase (AST), alanine aminotranspherase (ALT), and liver MDA values among the study groups. Subgroup averages and Kruskal-Wallis test results of oxidative markers and AST, ALT in serum samples of rats are given in Table 1 . Subgroup averages and Kruskal-Wallis test results of oxidative markers in liver samples of rats are given in Table 2 . Comparison of parameters which show a statistically significant difference with Mann-Whitney U test between binary groups is given in Table 3 . There was no significant correlation between serum SOD and serum GPX and between serum SOD and liver MDA values ( p and r values are 0.964, 0.010; 0.666, 0.093, respectively). However, there were statistically significant positive correlations between liver MDA and ALT-AST values ( p and r values: 0.001, 0.616; 0.023, 0.463, respectively) ( Figure 1 ).

Subgroup averages and Kruskal-Wallis test results of oxidative markers and AST, ALT in serum samples of rats

Subgroup averages and Kruskal-Wallis test results of oxidative markers in liver samples of rats

Comparison of parameters which show a statistically significant difference with Mann-Whitney U test between binary groups

Box plot graphical presentation used for liver MDA, serum SOD, AST, and ALT in the studied groups. Mann- Whitney U test was used comparing groups. Group 1 – control group, group 2 – hair dye group, group 3 – oxidant cream group, group 4 – henna group

In biological systems, electron accepting molecules are known as free radicals. Free radicals are called oxidants when they are active oxygen derivatives. Oxidants lead to damage by adversely affecting cell membrane, genetic material or various enzymatic events when antioxidant defence capacity is overwhelmed [ 7 ]. An organism may also produce free radicals due to xenobiotics and normal metabolic activities [ 8 ]. Human skin has the capacity to metabolize xenobiotics. However, enzyme levels involved in the metabolism of xenobiotics in the skin are 4–10 times less than those found in the liver [ 9 ]. It is known that many personal care products applied on the skin or chemicals that come in contact with the skin can be absorbed through the skin. For this reason, the skin area to which the product is applied, blood, and liver tissues due to percutaneous absorption are the target structures of the chemicals in the product [ 10 ]. It is known that 50–80% of women in the world use hair dyes at least once in their lives [ 11 ].

In this study, it was determined that hair dye, oxidant cream, and henna have an oxidative effect by decreasing the serum SOD value or increasing the liver MDA value. In addition, three products that changed hair colour were observed to have hepatotoxic effects by increasing AST and/or ALT levels. Surprisingly, in intergroup comparisons, it was found that oxidative effects and liver toxicities of the oxidant cream and henna were similar. The oxidant cream was found to be more oxidative and more toxic to the liver when compared to hair dye.

SOD catalyses conversion of hydrogen peroxide to superoxide. GPX removes hydrogen peroxide from the tissues. SOD and GPX inhibit the accumulation of free radicals and the onset of lipid peroxidation. In this study, serum SOD levels were found to be low in hair dye and oxidant cream groups, which was possibly associated with increased oxidant burden. SOD catalyses conversion of hydrogen peroxide to superoxide. MDA is formed by the oxidation of fatty acids in the cell membrane and is the most important indicator of lipid peroxidation. In this study, the liver MDA value was found to be high in the oxidant cream and the henna groups. Oxidative stress refers to a shift in prooxidant-antioxidant balance towards the prooxidant side leading to cellular damage [ 7 ]. In the tissue culture model developed by Baker and Staecker [ 12 ], it was observed that repeated oxidative stress significantly increased hair cell death. In another study conducted by Jeong et al . [ 13 ], rat skin was bleached with hydrogen peroxide. Morphologic examination of the skin revealed that the extracellular matrix was disrupted, the epidermis was thinned, and subepidermal bullae were formed. Because the skin samples obtained in this study could not be homogenized, the oxidative status in the skin could not be assessed. It has been shown that hair dyes cause irritation in the ear, neck, and shoulder skin and that absorption of toxic substances they include cause hair loss and some cancers. Hydrogen peroxide has been shown to cause oxidative stress and cytotoxicity, suppressing hair growth [ 4 , 10 ]. In their study, Zanoni et al . [ 14 ] reported that paraphenylenediamine (PPD) and hydrogen peroxide, included in the hair dye, cause oxidative stress and subsequent DNA damage by increasing the formation of reactive oxygen species in human keratinocytes. Although the hair dye and the oxidant cream evaluated in this study included the same amount of hydrogen peroxide, the oxidant cream was more oxidative and hepatotoxic compared with the hair dye although the difference was not statistically significant. We think that this may be due to dilution of the oxidant cream after mixing with hair dye mixture during preparation of hair dye. Henna (Lawsonia inermis), a flowering plant, is grown in North Africa, India, Pakistan, and Ceylon. It has been reported that henna is used in the treatment of diseases such as eczema, burns, headache, scar, diarrhoea, leprosy, and fungus [ 15 ]. Numerous studies have been conducted on the efficacy and reliability of henna and contradictory results have been reported. In some studies emphasizing the positive aspects of henna, it has been shown that henna have antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects and does not cause significant genotoxicity [ 16 , 17 ]. In one study, extracts of Lawsonia inermis have been shown to improve plasmodium infection in mice by enhancing the endogenous antioxidant system and by suppressing oxidative damage [ 18 ]. Petzel-Witt et al . applied hydrogen peroxide, henna, permanent dye, and bleach to natural hair samples. Persistent hair dye and bleach were found to be oxidative, whereas henna was found to have no effect on the oxidative status of hair [ 19 ]. Various studies reported that henna has hepatoprotective effects resulting from its antioxidant properties [ 20 , 21 ]. On the other hand, the FDA has not approved the direct application of henna to the skin [ 14 ]. A study by McMillan et al . [ 22 ] demonstrated that henna caused haemolysis in rats associated with oxidative damage. A study by Sauriasari et al . [ 23 ] showed that two of the marketed henna samples showed cytotoxic effects whereas natural henna leaves did not have such effects. The resulting oxidative stress was associated with cytotoxic damage. The use of henna samples obtained by natural or unnatural pathways may be the reason for these different results in the literature. In this study, marketed henna samples were used and compared with the control group, hepatotoxic and oxidative effects of henna were observed.

Women and men with various sociocultural and economic levels are increasingly using products that change hair colour. Although permanent hair dyes, oxidant creams, and henna are frequently used, reliability is still a matter of debate. In this study, which is an “animal model study”, it was found that all three products had oxidative and hepatotoxic effects beyond the changing hair and skin colour. Of course, these results cannot be directly transferred to humans and further investigations are needed on humans. More information on these products will prevent potential damage.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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Evidence-backed discussion of substances to reverse grey hair / gray hair. Discussion of individual treatment plans and progress reports/photos encouraged.

GR7 Dye experiment

There's a lot of talk that GR7 contains a hair dye. Here's one way to test this:

Place some grey hairs in a glass.

Saturate with a few drops of GR7 daily

Post picture daily

Include white and black backgrounds for photo exposure compensation.

This test cannot prove or disprove whether there are any ingredients that act to increase melanin production in the hair follicle. They may be present. This test can only help detect whether some ingredients dye the hair.

Day 0 - https://imgur.com/a/V3XgdvI

Day 1 - https://imgur.com/a/noU8TkU (No obvious colour change. Small amount of liquid still present and saturating hair. no top up today)

Day 3 - https://imgur.com/a/lmGgaUj

Day 5 - It's gone dark https://imgur.com/a/FFsvSWW

How To Remove Hair Dye From Your Skin, According To Experts

And, more importantly, how to prevent the dye from staining in the first place.

There’s nothing quite like experiencing the eagerness of dyeing your own hair. But whether it’s a complete transformation, a touch up, or adding in some highlights, the end result almost always leaves behind a mess to clean up, with unwanted dye on your skin that isn't the easiest to remove.

Meet the experts: Jaimie DeRosa, M.D., F.A.C.S. , is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon at DeRosa Center Facial Plastic Surgery & Med Spa in Boston, MA. Robert Bennett is a colorist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, IL. Natalie Edri is a celebrity hairstylist and co-owner of En Edri Hair Salon . Ramya Garlapati, M.D. , is a board-certified dermatologist.

We spoke with a few experts who told us everything you need to know about how to remove hair dye from your skin with little to no hassle.

How to remove hair dye from your skin

One of the best ways to remove dye from the skin is to be sure to wipe away any drops or smudges during the coloring process. Robert Bennett, hairstylist and colorist at Chicago's Maxine Salon , recommends grabbing a cotton pad and rubbing the stained area with a stain or dye remover. “My favorite product is Redken Stain Remover ; the pads are included and already saturated, an easy all-in-one,” he explains.

You can also use any stain remover you can get your hands on. Just soak a cotton ball with the remover and gently wipe the stained areas. “Baby wipes or even petroleum jelly can also be used to help remove the dye from the skin ," Dr. DeRosa explains. "Just massage it into your skin, which will absorb the dye into the petroleum jelly.”

Redken Color Stain Remover Pads

If you don't have special hair dye remover wipes or liquids at home, there are a few solutions you can try with products you might already have on hand, according to Natalie Edri, celebrity hairstylist and co-owner of En Edri Hair Salon :

• Baking soda and soap or toothpaste: Baking soda is naturally abrasive, and when you mix it with either soap or toothpaste, it forms into a paste that's strong enough to remove hair dye from your skin. Per Edri, all you have to do is mix equal parts baking soda with toothpaste or dish soap and rub the affected area until it's clear.
• Rubbing alcohol: Rubbing alcohol is a disinfectant that can get most things out, and it might even work on your dye-stained skin. Dampen a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol and gently rub the affected skin until the dye is completely off. Because rubbing alcohol is an irritant, you'll want to avoid getting it in contact with sensitive areas, like your face and eyes.
• Makeup remover or micellar water: In some cases, your go-to makeup remover or micellar water might do the trick just fine. Simply dampen a cotton ball with either one, and rub the area until it's clean.
• Oil: If you have sensitive skin, olive oil or coconut oil may be a good alternative to harsher at-home stain-removing solutions like rubbing alcohol. Simply rub the affected area with your favorite oil until the dye stains release. Baby oil can also work well—just make sure not to get it in your eyes.

How to prevent staining your skin with hair dye

The first thing you should know, according to board-certified dermatologist Ramya Garlapati, M.D., is that you should always wear gloves whenever mixing hair dye or applying it, as it’s incredibly difficult to remove dye from your nails and fingers. It's also helpful to use some kind of barrier cream on the areas that you don't want the color to stick.

“The best way to avoid staining is to moisturize prior to your color appointment, the night before and right before the hair dye is applied,” says Bennett. If you’re getting your hair professionally colored, you should expect your colorist to add a barrier cream to your hairline before the dye is applied. “ Poly8 is the barrier cream I used in-salon and recommend,” he adds.

If you're taking the at-home route, Dr. DeRosa suggests putting a protective layer of petroleum jelly or mineral oil at the edges of the hairline and ears to keep the dye from penetrating the skin and staining it. “It’s also helpful to keep your skin as hydrated as possible before dyeing your hair, as dry skin soaks up the dye more easily,” she explains.

You should also remember that when applying petroleum jelly, only apply it to the areas you’re trying to keep dye-free, as getting any of it on your hair will not cause the hair dye not to work properly.

How can hair dye impact the skin?

Aside from it not looking the best, according to Dr. DeRosa, hair dye doesn't usually pose any big risk to the skin, but it can cause redness and itchiness. “If you’re concerned about a rash or particular skin condition, be sure to consult with your doctor,” she suggests. Luckily, even if you don’t act quickly to remove the dye from your skin, it's likely to fade away in a just few days.

“Certain dyes contain PPD, which is a well-known allergen that can cause a rash in certain individuals when it comes into contact with the skin,” Dr. Garlapati explains. Hair dye can cause your skin and scalp to itch, but you may also experience skin irritation as a result of rubbing your skin to remove the color. Ensuring you’re thoroughly getting the dye out of your hair while washing it can help you avoid this entirely.

Sydney is a freelance writer in the beauty, lifestyle, and wellness space. She has written for multiple publications throughout her career, including InStyle, Architectural Digest, Glamour, and Elle, in addition to a copywriting for a handful of beauty and wellness brands.

April Benshosan is a New York City-based writer and editor. She graduated with a Master’s degree in Publishing from Pace University, and her byline appears on LIVESTRONG.com, Eat This, Not That!, Business Insider, MSN, Yahoo!, OK! Magazine, and Travel Squire. In her free time, you can catch April lifting weights, spending time with her pup, or planning her next vacation.

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Salon Professionals Use This Hair Dye on Their Own Strands To Achieve Rich Mom Hair

Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!

There’s an old saying that a woman who changes her hair is a woman preparing to change her life. We happen to agree with that sentiment! Whether you’re going from brunette to blonde or using black dye to cover up gray strands, there’s so much change on the other side of a new hair color. Frankly, it’s like elevating from one level of confidence to the next.

Using permanent hair dye to change the color of your strands is a classic way to switch up your look. Redken’s Cover Fusion Advanced Performance Permanent Color Cream delivers natural-looking results. No one will know your new color didn’t grow directly from your scalp.

Get the Redken Cover Fusion Advanced Performance Permanent Color Cream at Walmart!

It’s a stylist-loved treatment that provides 100% dimensional coverage in 9 tonal families, ranging from natural ash to natural gold. The permanent treatment has a low ammonia formula that makes clients and stylists more comfortable. Fashionistas looking to cover grays can use this cream too. It has a unique technology designed to address the needs of aging strands. Best of all? You can create customizable colors when you combine Cover Fusion shades.

It’s pretty easy to use. Mix the cream with a 20-volume pro-oxide cream developer. Allow it to process without heat for 35 minutes, or up to 45 minutes on resistant hair types. Follow your standard wash day routine after the cream processes and you’re good to go.

Redken shoppers are so impressed with this dye. “[I’ve] loved this product for 10 years, [it provides] great cover and color control with pre-mixed color and [a] nice creamy consistency for easy application. Another five-star reviewer raved, “This line is so easy to use [and] understand, and [it] gives consistent results.”

Looking to make a long-lasting change to your hair? Using a permanent dye is a great place to start! Snag this permanent hair dye that salon stylists and shoppers love!

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