Hair dye vs hair colour: which is better?

Hair dye and hair colour- is there a difference between the two?

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Written By: Mansi Kohli | Published : December 12, 2017 7:54 PM IST

Hair dye goes inside the surface of hair, while hair colour stays on the surface and paints the hair from outside only. Hence, the effect of hair colour needs constant touch-ups. So, which one is better for daily use? Dr AL Das, Senior Consultant, Dept of Dermatology at Fortis Hospital, Noida helps us in deciphering this tricky question.

Spotting the real differences between hair dye and hair colour: A hair dye is more permanent and long lasting. The word dye indicates that the chemicals are more in quantity and stronger in nature. A hair dye is more permanent than hair colour. Hair dye is formed through strong chemical mixtures, which can have a harsher and more adverse effect on the hair.

On the other hand, hair colour is usually mild and after a few washes it tends to fade. It doesn t reach the roots of the hair, but is often just a coating that is applied to the surface of the hair. The word dye is also synonymous with the image of fabric being dipped into dye solution. However, to avoid this imagery, marketing teams use the words hair colour instead of hair dye . Hair dyes affect the roots of the hair while hair colours only act as a surface coating. Did you know these easy tips to colour your hair at home like a pro

Exploring the effects of semi-permanent hair dye on your hair: Semi-permanent hair dye is harmful for the hair but it is not as harmful as permanent hair dye. This is because semi-permanent hair dye does not contain bleach. While it s chemically weaker it is also less harsh on the hair and can therefore be directly applied to the hair. While it makes helps the hair regain some of its lustre, it fades after 8 to 10 washes. It is not effective in covering the grey hair. This is because it does not embed itself deeply in the hair, rather just attempts to lighten it. Read here Balayage the most popular trend in hair colouring

Ingredients one must be wary about in hair colour: There are a few chemicals that one should be extremely wary of in hair colours, such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Parabens, Ammonia, and Resorcinol. The hair is made up of Keratin and chemicals pose a significant threat to the texture, quality, thickness and colour. It can lead to scalp irritation, allergies, hair fall, headaches, fatigue and even cancer (some hair dyes contain carcinogenic components). Some of these chemicals also cause the hair to stop growing after a certain period of time.

What to look for when buying hair dye or hair colour? Anything with lower amount of chemicals is better in the long run. Using organic hair colour and hair dye is a much better option as its adverse effects on the hair are minimised. The use of chemical products often results in stripping the hair of its essential oils and nutrients. It may even cause the hair to fall excessively or stop growing all together. At times, the colour fades leaving the hair looking very different from what was envisioned. Using overly acidic or alkaline hair dyes can cause cancers, headaches, fatigue and a plethora of allergic reactions. It could leave the hair brittle, dry and lifeless. So, whatever you do, be chemical free and be organic! Read here I tried colouring my hair at home-- Here's my experience!

Whether you use hair dye or hair colour, taking care of your hair is a must: You need to take care of your hair because it is the first thing people notice about you. It becomes a big part of how you conduct yourself and what you think of yourself. The hair is just like any other body part, it needs to be care for and nurtured. Here s how you can take care of it:

  • Use a good shampoo to last longer and maintain the health of your processed hair.
  • Strictly avoid putting the ingredient Sulfates on coloured hair.
  • Use clarifying shampoos on color-treated hair only before coloring.
  • Your tresses should be well oiled for atleast 3-4 times in a month.

Use proper brushes and combs and ensure that you don t tie your hair up too tightly, or else it may rip at the roots.

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