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Bravo to you for wanting to go green with your beauty routine, especially when it comes to bringing life, art and a funky new look to your hair. But before you toss your traditional hair color aside, find out whether natural hair coloring options can be a hit or miss for being both glamorous and eco-friendly.
Pro: Healthy Alternative
Bet you didn't know that there are 22 potentially carcinogenic hair-dye chemicals that have been banned in the European Union but are still being used in some hair dyes made and used in the U.S. These include Acid Orange 24 and 2,3-Naphthalenediol, linked to bladder cancer. Natural hair dyes like Lush, Act by Nature and Surya Brasil avoid these unsafe chemicals, protecting the health of your hair and you as well. Vegetable-based dyes are great alternatives to traditional, potentially toxic dyes, and can give the hair more shine, thickness and fullness.
Pro: Allergy-Free
The many harsh chemicals in traditional hair colors can potentially cause an allergic reaction. "There is a high percentage of people who have an allergic reaction to the chemical PPD (P-Phenylenediamine), which is found in many hair color products," said hair stylist Veronica Penzone of Beauty by Veronica in Scottsdale, Arizona. Stick to ammonia-free and ultra-delicate lines like L'Oreal Inoa and Framesi Eclectic if you want the benefits of permanent color sans the side effects.
Con: Less Coverage
Don't expect your natural hair color to cover up any secret gray hairs you'd rather not show. Eli Mancha of Chicago's Bang Salon warned that in working with a natural hair color system you will not get full coverage. So if you are trying to cover gray, It will only blend it away, not fully mask it.
Con: No Dramatic Changes
Don't expect an extreme makeover after a breakup or life transition that makes you want to change the color of your hair. "If you are looking for a dramatic color change, permanent is a better option because natural color can't lift the cuticle," said Mancha. Unless you only want to go darker or richer, you'll have to use a permanent color. Natural hair colors won't give you a bolder or lighter look, which may turn your makeover into a less than climactic experience.
