Debunking Myths About Permanent Hair Color
The concept of applying permanent hair color can seem daunting, but with a professional stylist and the right knowledge, it need not be a source of worry. Let's debunk four common misconceptions about permanent hair colors so you can enjoy experimenting with colors without worrying about hair damage.
What Is A Permanent Hair Color?
Permanent hair colors alter the natural pigment of your hair, thus transforming its structure. The color in permanent hair dye is made up of tiny, initially colorless molecules, these molecules infiltrate the hair cuticle. It's only when they mix with hydrogen peroxide and initiate an oxidation chemical reaction that the real transformation occurs. This reaction allows the hair dye molecules to incorporate themselves into the hair fiber structure, resulting in what we recognize as permanent hair color or at least a color that can endure numerous washes.
Permanent hair colors often get a negative reputation because they contain stronger chemicals than demi-permanent hair color, which merely coats the hair without modifying its structure. A permanent hair color also requires a longer application time, which may slightly alter the hair texture.
Having said this, let’s accept it - where there are facts, there will also be some myths. And the topic of permanent hair colors isn’t alien to this notion. So, now that you know how permanent hair colors work, let’s look at 4 common myths about permanent hair colors and debunk them once and for all.
Myth 1: It Damages Your Hair
Yes, permanent hair colors contain chemicals that strip the color from your hair and add new pigments. As it's designed to resist many washes, the chemicals are more potent and remain on the hair for longer. However, circling back to the question - does permanent hair color damage the hair? The short answer is No. Depositing a dye in your hair does not damage its quality or cause any hair color damage.
Wondering how long does the permanent hair color last? It varies depending on your hair growth rate, but usually, root touch-ups are needed every 4 to 6 weeks.
While it's a valid concern that permanent hair color could harm hair strength and flexibility, under professional care, severe hair color damage is unlikely. After a professional permanent hair color service, your hair should still appear vibrant and feel healthy, even with a new color.
Myth 2: You’ll End Up With Monotone, Flat, Dull Hair
Choosing permanent hair color does not mean you're limited to a single shade. You can still create a multidimensional effect that enhances the natural highlights in your hair, giving it depth and a more authentic appearance.
Several permanent hair color lines from Redken like the Shades EQ Range or ourColor Gel Oils deliver a multidimensional and natural-looking finish. Furthermore, be sure to go to your nearest Redken Salon for professional service that protects your hair from hair color damage. Redken’s Shades EQ Bonder Inside, for example, helps strengthen sensitized hair and reduce alkalinity and damage after a lightning service.
Myth 3: Permanent Hair Color Is Only for Gray Coverage
While permanent hair color is an excellent choice for covering gray hair due to its wide shade range and long-lasting results, it's not its only purpose. Trendy hair color styles like ombre and balayage often use permanent hair color at the roots, combined with lightener at the ends, to create a natural-looking gradient.
Myth 4: Lightening The Hair Can Lead To Brassy Hair
Brassiness, an unwanted warm tone, can occur as your new hair color begins to fade, revealing the natural pigments that weren't eliminated by the bleach or hair color. To mitigate it, select a shade that contains plenty of cool tones from the beginning.
How To Prevent Hair Color Damage
- GO FOR AMMONIA-FREE AND HYDROGEN-PEROXIDE-FREE COLORS
- USE NOURISHING HAIR TREATMENTS
- AVOID HEAT STYLING
- USE HAIR CARE PRODUCTS MADE FOR COLORED HAIR
If you're considering changing your hair color, it's essential to choose products that are free from harsh chemicals such as ammonia and hydrogen peroxide. These compounds can wreak havoc on your hair, damaging its structure, causing dryness and even leading to breakage and premature greying. By opting for hair colors free from these damaging ingredients, you're making a healthier choice for your locks.
Maintaining the health and vibrancy of your colored hair is not just about the dye you choose. Regularly treating your hair with deep conditioning treatments and hair masks, particularly those rich in natural oils and proteins, can help restore moisture and elasticity to dyed hair. These treatments can combat the dryness and brittleness often associated with colored hair, leaving it feeling nourished and revitalised.
Colored hair can be particularly susceptible to damage from heat styling tools. To mitigate this, try to limit your use of tools such as blow dryers, straighteners and curling irons. If you can't avoid using them altogether, make sure to apply a heat protectant spray before styling to minimize the potential damage. Redken’s Thermal Spray and Quick Blowout are two top-notch options.
Shampoos and conditioners formulated specifically for colored hair are less likely to strip your hair of its dye and natural oils. When shopping, look for products that are pH balanced, gentle and designed to prolong the life of your hair color while providing essential hydration. The Color Extends Range from Redken is a special product line developed for color-treated hair. These products can help maintain the vibrancy and health of your colored hair, ensuring it looks great for longer.
Redken offers a plethora of hair color shades to choose from. Depending on your skin tone and undertone, Redken Experts can help you choose the perfect cool shades tailored for you. To consult a professional colorist, visit a Redken salon near you for the ultimate hair color experience.