Family Encyclopedia >> Beauty & Style

Coloring in questions #4

Will natural hair colors ever compete with their chemical equivalents?

It is not possible. The difference between an oxidation formula and a natural product is that the second does not create an oxidation reaction (=the opening of the scales). It therefore cannot change the structure of the hair. In nature, there is no plant capable of doing this. Only urine (which contains ammonia), salt and lemon can create an oxidation reaction… Not very glam! "However, unless you want a drastic change, you can get a very satisfying result with a natural colo", says Rodolphe.

Is henna a coloring or care product?

Both ! There are two types:the one that colors (known as “Egyptian henna”) comes from Lawsonia inermis, whose leaves are dried and reduced to powder. It is highly concentrated in pigments (more than some colorings) and contains care molecules that strengthen and make the hair shine. It is recommended for women who want to use a natural product, obtain warm reflections and who do not like to change color often (henna never completely fades). The second, neutral henna, comes from Cassia italica and has just the active ingredients. Whatever the desired result, we choose a pure henna, without zinc oxide (we check on the pack). Why ? It is incompatible with ammonia (under penalty of seeing the hair go up in smoke!), so if you want to redo an oxidation colon, you have to wait for total regrowth. If the henna is pure, it can be considered without concern, provided you wait at least six weeks and do not want to lighten it (it may not work).

Thank you to Frédéric Mennetrier, colorist at Atelier Blanc and L’Oréal Professionnel expert, to Rodolphe Lombard, colorist at the Couleur par Rodolphe salon and to David Merveille, Schwarzkopf hairdresser consultant.