It’s estimated that approximately two-thirds of American women dye their hair. In fact, coloring your hair is the norm — no one really thinks twice about it. Based on past and recent research, hair dyes are being viewed as a potential public health risk. Considering over 5,000 different chemicals are used in hair coloring products, natural hair dyes are highly recommended.
The Link Between Cancer and Hair Dye
Cancer affects millions each year, impacting the lives of many more loved ones. As mentioned, a wide range of chemicals is often used in order to permanently color hair. Of these chemicals, many are believed to be carcinogenic — which essentially means they’re ‘cancer-causing additives.
When dying your hair, the product requires both a color and a developer — the component that contains ammonia and hydrogen peroxide. A number of studies have confirmed that hair coloring, may significantly increase your risk of cancer. We’re exposed to enough environmental toxins as is — focus on natural alternatives instead.
Use These 3 Natural Hair Dyes Instead
Whether you want to cover grays, lighten or darken your hair, there are a number of natural methods that produce great results. Of course, these results are more subtle than bleach, however, they also look more natural. The color of your hair is not something that should determine your level of confidence, but if you would like to experience subtle changes — try these non-toxic hair dyes.
- Lemon Juice
This is an old trick, allowing individuals to naturally lighten their hair. Working as a natural bleaching agent, lemon can lighten your hair without the associated fuss or safety-related issues. All you need is a lemon and the sun — that’s it. Although you may not experience drastic results after one use, repeated exposure to the sun will most certainly provide noticeable effects.
Either brush or rub lemon juice onto the desired area, then step out into the sun. As the acid combines with oxygen and the sun’s UV rays, your hair undergoes oxidation, resulting in natural highlights. Since the active ingredient, known as limonene, is most concentrated in the rind, you could also make a thin paste with lemon zest and juice.
- Black Walnuts
For those who want darker hair, more specifically black, this is one of the most powerful ways to achieve naturally colored hair. Since the color from black walnuts is so effective, it’s suggested that you wear gloves when handling the husks. Luckily, the process itself could not be easier.
Peel the husks, then place them into boiling water. Once a rapid boil develops, reduce and simmer for 20 minutes. After this natural black dye has cooled, strain into a bottle with a carrier oil of your choice — jojoba oil is a great choice. To thicken, add some all-natural conditioner and then apply to your hair. After 30 minutes, rinse thoroughly.
If you would like rich strands of red hair, beet juice is a great solution. The pigment in beets, known as betalain, is a potent antioxidant that naturally colors hair. If you would like rich strands of red, you should repeatedly dye with beet juice until you reach the desired tone. To increase effectiveness, mix the beet juice with a small amount of black tea.