The Truth About Expensive Hair Dye
Is a higher price tag a guarantee of better quality when it comes to hair dye? Many people believe that expensive hair dye is better, but is that really true?
According to Zhong Hua, a dermatologist at the Military Medical University in China, most hair dyes contain hydrogen peroxide and amphetamine as their main ingredients.
Therefore, regardless of price, there is little difference in effectiveness and safety when it comes to hair dye.
While expensive hair dyes may offer a slightly different formula and a slightly better experience, such as less frizz or less unpleasant odor, they do not offer an absolute advantage.
In conclusion, expensive hair dye is not necessarily better. Choose based on your individual needs and hair type, and always follow the instructions to minimize potential risks.
Hair Dye Allergies: The Facts
While many people use hair dye without experiencing any issues, others may develop skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Dr. Jody A. Levine, a dermatologist based in New York City, explains that most skin irritation or allergic reactions are caused by an interaction with PPD (para-phenylenediamine).
Research suggests that only slightly over 6% of people with dermatitis (skin inflammation) in North America are allergic to PPD.
Other ingredients, such as ammonia, sulfates, parabens, perfumes, and formaldehyde, can also cause skin reactions.
The most common skin reaction to hair dye is contact dermatitis, an irritating skin condition that occurs after contact with a substance to which the body is sensitive.
Symptoms often appear on the scalp, face, and neck, as these areas are most likely to be exposed to the dye.
If gloves are not used, the hands can also experience these symptoms.
Damaged skin barriers make the skin more susceptible to irritation. Conditions such as eczema can create small cracks on the skin's surface, making it easier for hair dye ingredients to penetrate and cause irritation.
Hair dye ingredients can also exacerbate scalp psoriasis, a condition characterized by thick, raised patches of skin developing on the scalp.
Eye irritation can occur if the product comes into contact with the eyes, and the fumes from hair dye, which contain ingredients like ammonia or formaldehyde, can cause breathing difficulties.
Hair Dye Safety: Important Considerations
Dr. Yang X Xuyên, a dermatologist at the Southwest Hospital of the Military Medical University in China, warns of three main risks associated with hair dye: allergies, hair damage, and heavy metal poisoning.
Some low-quality hair dyes may contain heavy metals above acceptable standards. Using these dyes repeatedly over long periods can lead to heavy metal poisoning.
Even products that meet quality standards require caution, particularly when it comes to frequency of use and individual factors.
How often should you dye your hair? Dr. Yang Shuxia, Chief of Dermatology at Peking University First Hospital, advises against dyeing your hair too often, as it can lead to breakage, damage, and a loss of shine and smoothness.
The ideal frequency is no more than twice a year.
Who should avoid dyeing their hair? Dr. Chu Yuhao, a PhD from Beijing University of Chemical Technology and engineer at the Sinopec Beijing Chemical Industry Research Institute, cautions against hair dyeing for people with sensitive scalps, skin lesions, pregnant women, breastfeeding women, the elderly, and those with impaired liver and kidney function.
This is to prevent the accumulation of harmful substances in the body, which can affect health.
"One-time dye" products, which claim to achieve the desired hair color in a single wash, can be more harmful than conventional hair dye.
Frequent use of these products increases the risk of allergies and can damage the body.
Summary
Hair dye, whether expensive or not, contains similar main ingredients and offers little difference in effectiveness and safety. While expensive brands may offer slightly better formulas and experiences, the price does not guarantee superior quality.
However, everyone should be aware of the risks associated with hair dye, including allergies, hair damage, and heavy metal poisoning. It is essential to choose reputable brands, follow instructions carefully, and minimize the frequency of dyeing to ensure healthy hair and prevent potential health issues.