Raechele Cochran Gathers, MD Coloring your hair can be a fun way to switch up your look, but it’s important to choose the right products and follow the right steps to keep your hair healthy. Black women, in particular, may have unique concerns when it comes to coloring their hair, as their hair may be more prone to dryness and breakage. This article will focus on tips for using color on Black women’s hair.
Black hair tends to be more fragile and prone to breakage than other hair types due to its structure. Black hair is typically dryer than other hair types, with a tighter curl pattern that makes it more susceptible to damage from chemical treatments. This can make black hair more challenging to color without causing damage.
Additionally, many traditional hair coloring products contain harsh chemicals such as ammonia and peroxide that can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause damage. Black women’s hair may already be more prone to dryness and damage, so using these products can exacerbate the problem.
Finally, black women may also be more prone to scalp irritation or allergic reactions to hair coloring products. This may be due to a variety of factors, including the sensitivity of the scalp and a history of using harsh chemicals on the hair.
Here are some ingredients to look for and avoid, as well as do’s and don’ts for black women who want to color their hair.
Ingredients to Look for:
• Moisturizing ingredients
Look for hair coloring products that contain moisturizing ingredients such as shea butter, jojoba oil, or argan oil. These natural plant-based oils will help fortify your hair and prevent it from becoming dry and brittle.
• Protein
Hair coloring can cause damage to the hair, so it’s important to choose products that contain protein to help strengthen the hair and reduce the risk of breakage. Look for ingredients such as keratin or hydrolyzed wheat protein.
• Natural Ingredients
Natural ingredients such as henna, indigo, and amla can be a great option for black women who want to color their hair without using harsh chemicals. These ingredients can provide color without causing damage to the hair. Godrej Nupur Henna is used not only as a natural hair color but also as a plant-based hair conditioner.
Ingredients to Avoid:
• Ammonia
Ammonia is a common ingredient in hair coloring products, but it can be very harsh and damaging to the hair, particularly for black women. Ammonia can strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle.
• Parabens
Parabens are preservatives that are commonly used in hair care products and may be harmful to the body. Parabens have been linked to breast cancer and other health issues, so it’s best to avoid them when possible.
• Sulfates
Sulfates are harsh detergents that are often used in hair care products, but they can be very drying to the hair, particularly for black women. Sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle.
Do’s and Don’ts:
+ Do a patch test
Before coloring your entire head of hair, it’s important to do a patch test to make sure you’re not allergic to the product. Apply a small amount of the product to a small area of skin and wait 24 hours to see if you have any adverse reactions.
+ Do deep condition before and after coloring
Coloring your hair can be drying, so it’s important to deep condition your hair before and after coloring. This will help to keep your hair hydrated and prevent breakage. Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask and Deep Conditioner for Dry or Damaged Hair contains argan oil and is used to detangle, hydrate, and revive dull and dry hair.
+ Do follow the instructions carefully
Follow the instructions on the hair coloring product carefully to ensure that you get the best results. Leaving the product on for too long or not long enough can affect the color and damage your hair.
≠ Don’t over-process your hair
Over-processing your hair can cause damage and breakage. If you’re coloring your hair for the first time, it’s best to start with a darker shade and work your way up to a lighter shade over time.
≠ Don’t shampoo your hair too often
Shampooing your hair too often can strip it of its natural oils and cause it to become dry and brittle. Wait at least 48 hours after coloring your hair before washing it, and try to limit shampoo to once or twice a week.
≠ Don’t use hot tools too often
Using hot tools such as flat irons or curling irons can cause damage to the hair, particularly if it’s already been colored. If you must use hot tools, always use a heat protectant spray to minimize damage to your tresses.
≠ Don’t bleach your hair
Bleaching your hair can be very damaging, especially for black women who may already have dry or brittle hair. If you want to go lighter, it’s best to do it gradually over time and use products that are specifically designed for color-treated hair.
Summary
Overall, it’s important for black women to choose hair coloring products that are designed with their hair type in mind, and to take extra care to prevent damage and maintain the health of their hair. By using products with moisturizing and strengthening ingredients, avoiding harsh chemicals such as ammonia, parabens, and sulfates, and following the right steps, black women can safely color their hair. Remember to deep condition your hair before and after coloring, follow the instructions carefully, avoid over-processing your hair, and do not use hot tools too frequently. By following these tips, you can achieve beautiful, healthy hair that looks great and feels great.
