Organic Hair Color: The Ultimate Guide

Mar 6

Written By W&S

by Teyah Nichole

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Teyah Nichole

Nichole is an American (she/her), animal-loving, coffee-obsessed, small-talk hating, ENFJ-T , vegetarian based in London. She founded W&S almost two years ago before starting her PhD, with a desire to learn in community with like-minded women. [Get in touch]

We saw this amazing TikTok from @kirtitewani (check out her content!) and got inspired to make this article about organic hair color.

@kirtitewani Replying to @Veena full recepie on YouTube of this chemical free all natural home made hair color! #haircolor #allnatural #greyhair #hairfall #hairloss ♬ original sound - Kirti - Ayurveda

In recent years, the rise of organic hair color products has promised a safer, more sustainable solution for those seeking to express themselves without compromising their well-being or the planet's health. But amidst the buzz surrounding organic hair color, questions linger: Is it truly as effective as its conventional counterparts, or is it merely a passing trend? In this article, we delve into the world of organic hair color to separate fact from fiction and uncover the truth behind the hype.

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The art of hair coloring dates back centuries, with evidence of ancient civilizations using natural dyes to change their hair color. From the henna dyes of ancient Egypt to the plant-based concoctions of medieval Europe, women have long used hair color as a form of self-expression and beauty enhancement. This tradition has continued through the ages, evolving with changing trends and cultural influences.

Black women, in particular, have a rich history of embracing vibrant and creative hairstyles, often incorporating bold colors to express their individuality and cultural pride. However, recent reports have raised concerns about the health risks associated with traditional hair dyes, especially for women of color. In 2020, studies highlighted the potential dangers of chemical-laden hair dyes, linking them to various health issues, including allergic reactions and even cancer. Additionally, the environmental impact of these conventional hair dyes has been a longstanding concern, with their production and disposal contributing to pollution and ecosystem harm.

In light of these concerns, there has been a growing interest in organic hair color alternatives. These natural hair dyes are made from plant-based ingredients, free from harsh chemicals and synthetic additives. They offer a safer and more sustainable option for women looking to change their hair color without compromising their health or the environment. With a focus on botanical extracts and nourishing oils, organic hair color products promise vibrant hues and lasting results without the harmful side effects. But what are these promises based on? How do such promises come to fruition?

What is “Organic Hair Color”?

In order to answer the above questions, it’s useful to begin with exploring what “organic” hair color even means. Organic hair color refers to hair dye products made from natural, plant-based ingredients that are free from synthetic chemicals and harsh additives. In the United States, the term "organic" is regulated by the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture), which sets strict standards for agricultural products labeled as organic. To be certified organic, hair color products must contain ingredients that are grown and processed without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. Additionally, organic hair color products must meet specific criteria for environmental sustainability and animal welfare.

Consumers can identify certified organic hair color products by looking for the USDA Organic seal on the packaging. This seal indicates that the product has undergone rigorous testing and certification processes to ensure its organic integrity. It's essential to note that not all products labeled as "natural" or "plant-based" are necessarily organic, as these terms are not regulated in the same way as organic certification.

Organic hair color products typically contain botanical extracts, such as henna, indigo, and chamomile, which provide natural pigmentation without the need for synthetic dyes. These plant-based ingredients offer vibrant and long-lasting color while nourishing the hair and scalp. Unlike conventional hair dyes, which often contain ammonia and other harsh chemicals, organic hair color products are gentler on the hair and less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions.

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Henna, for example, has been used for centuries as a natural hair dye in various cultures around the world. Made from the leaves of the Lawsonia inermis plant, henna produces rich, reddish-brown tones and can also help strengthen and condition the hair. Similarly, indigo, derived from the leaves of the Indigofera tinctoria plant, is used to create deep blue and black shades in organic hair color products.

In addition to plant-based ingredients, organic hair color products may also contain nourishing oils, such as coconut oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil, which help hydrate and protect the hair. These natural oils provide moisture and shine without weighing down the hair or leaving behind a greasy residue.

Overall, organic hair color offers a safer and more sustainable alternative to conventional hair dyes, providing vibrant color and nourishment without compromising health or the environment.

How Does Organic Hair Color Work?

Understanding how organic hair color works begins with an exploration of the chemical processes involved in hair coloring. When hair undergoes natural color changes or is dyed with conventional hair dyes, the process involves altering the structure of the hair shaft and depositing color molecules into the hair cuticle.

Hair color changes naturally occur due to the presence of melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color. Melanin is produced by cells called melanocytes located in the hair follicles. As hair grows, melanocytes release melanin into the hair shaft, resulting in the hair's natural color.

When hair is dyed with conventional hair dyes, the process typically involves opening the hair cuticle with an alkaline agent, such as ammonia, to allow the dye to penetrate the hair shaft. Once the cuticle is opened, the dye molecules are absorbed into the cortex of the hair, where they react with the natural melanin to produce the desired color.

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Organic hair color works differently from conventional hair dyes in that it relies on natural ingredients, such as plant extracts and minerals, to color the hair without harsh chemicals. These ingredients, such as henna, indigo, and chamomile, contain pigments that adhere to the hair shaft and provide color without altering the hair's structure.

One of the key differences between organic hair color and conventional hair dyes is the gentleness of the formulation. Organic hair color products are free from ammonia and other harsh chemicals, making them less likely to cause damage or irritation to the hair and scalp. However, it's essential to note that organic hair color may not lift or lighten the hair's natural color as effectively as conventional hair dyes, particularly on dark or resistant hair.

When considering organic hair color for different hair types and textures, it's important to understand that results may vary. While organic hair color can be effective on a wide range of hair types, including straight, curly, and afro-textured hair, the final outcome may depend on factors such as hair porosity, texture, and previous chemical treatments.

Overall, organic hair color offers a safer and more natural alternative to conventional hair dyes, providing vibrant color while nourishing and protecting the hair.

Organic Hair Color Inspo You HAVE to Check Out

From vibrant hues to natural shades, these videos highlight the beauty and versatility of organic hair coloring methods:

@ivorychannell Dye your hair naturally using henna & indigo | Two step henna & indo dye black #henna #indigo #ayurveda #amlaoil #ayurvedatips #hairoil #fenugreekseeds #naturalhair #locs ♬ original sound - Ivory Channell

@hotfootharmony When people ask about my hair colour and I say “It’s complicated”, I mean that very literally 😅 Henna is a serious commitment, so do your research if you choose to use it. My hair has been strongest & healthiest when I used henna & other ayurvedic treatments consistently in the past (when my hair was black) #4bhair #naturalhairtiktok #ayurveda #ayurvedichaircare #gasparillobuck #organichaircare #4chair #type4hair #redhair #afrohair @hennatrinidad ♬ Don't Touch My Hair (feat. Sampha) - Solange

@sonyawongsingh Being Real with Natureal ❤ Showing my hair some love through colours and organic ingredients, how do you think it turned out? @Natureal Organic #Natureal #organicmadeaffordable #instantorganichairdye #organicshampoo #organic #haircolouring #hairdye #beauty #healthyhair ♬ original sound - Sonya Wong Singh

@daymeha About eight years ago, after my breast implant illness I started on a completely holistic journey that would include everything I put into my body as far as nutrition, as well as onto my body, such as makeup and skin and hair products. I buy a really natural hair dye from Whole Foods and bring it to my spa to have them apply it. #nontoxic #organic #breastimplants #bii #fyp #plantbased #selflove #blackhair #momlife ♬ HEYYY WAIT A SECOND - FIN