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Hair dyes are one of the most used products by women. However, after the many alerts about health risks raised by experts, many wonder if it is best to change their habits. Unfortunately, it is not enough to look for ammonia-free hair dyes to take cover. In fact, ammonia is not the worst ingredient. Dyes contain an endless list of chemical ingredients, as well as powerful allergens.
These synthetic components don’t just stop at the hair. In fact, they penetrate the bulb and are absorbed by the body. This is more than enough reason to know the risks and side effects. Here are the 5 most harmful ingredients that hair dyes may contain.
Ammonia in Hair Dyes
Used to open the scales of the hair, and thus penetrate the colour, ammonia is one of the main causes of allergic reactions linked to the dyeing habit. In reality, there are now many ammonia-free dyes on the market. However, manufacturers often replace this substance with monoethanolamine, which could be even worse. Indeed, while ammonia is harmful only if ingested, monoethanolamine is harmful if ingested, inhaled and in contact with the skin.
p-Phenylenediamine
Another problematic component is PPD, used as a colour reagent. It is one of the most powerful contact allergens. However, the risks for women who occasionally dye their hair are lower than those faced by hairdressers, who are constantly exposed. According to a Swedish study conducted in 2014, gloves are not sufficient to protect hands from the allergenic action of PPD.
Also in this case, do not believe in products that claim to be PPD-free. In fact, they may contain its derivatives, with the same effects.
Resorcinol in Hair Dyes
Benzene is classified by IARC as a type 1 carcinogen (the group of certain human carcinogens). It is also irritating to the skin, eyes and respiratory system. From benzene we get resorcinol, which is essential for the coluring process and therefore often contained in hair dyes. Absorption by the body has several side effects, such as allergies, but also likely endocrine disruption. As if that were not enough, it is highly polluting and persistent in the environment.
Also pay attention to the labels in this case. Products without resorcinol often contain similar or even worse substances, such as 4 chloro-resorcinol.
If you are not ready to give up hair dyes, at least try to limit their use. Natural products are of course the best solution. In any case, always check the label before buying a hair colour.