Is your beauty routine adding toxins to your body?
When we think about starting a detox regimen or lifestyle change to remove toxins from our body, our thoughts generally go to the foods we eat. But just as important are the beauty and other topical products we use everyday. These products can and do contain chemicals that can have inadvertent effects on our physical health.
Are hair dyes safe to use?
One of the biggest offenders when it comes to toxicity and chemicals are hair dyes. Hair dyes vary greatly in their chemical
make-up but there are generally three main types:
Temporary dyes: these cover the surface of the hair but don’t reach the hair shaft. Lasts for 1 to 2 washings.
Semi-permanent dyes: these penetrate the hair shaft and typically last for 5 to 10 washings.
Permanent hair dyes: These dyes cause lasting chemical changes in the hair shaft. Lasts until new hair growth occurs.
What chemicals are found in hair dyes?
All hair dyes contain chemicals in them, but permanent hair dyes also contain aromatic amines and phenols, which are the chemical agents that trigger hair coloring. As a rule, darker hair dyes tend to use more of th
ese coloring agents and because of that, the risk of developing cancer or other forms of reactions increases.
Other chemicals that can be found in hair dyes and that should be avoided include:
Para-phenylenediamine or PPD - has the po
tential to cause a minor skin reaction and, in rare cases, anaphylactic shock.
Ammonia & resorcinol - can be damaging to your overall hair health and can trigger abnormal functioning of your thyroids.
Are there any safe alternatives to hair dye?
Nowadays, there are many plant and henna-based hair dyes to choose from. Yep, I’m talking about that henna; the one derived from plant-based sources to create intricate designs on the skin. Even still, there may still be some source of active chemical ingredients in those products. Even if a product comes labeled as “all natural” or “organic,” it’s important to take note of the ingredients because these claims remain largely unregulated.
That said, here are some great alternatives to traditional hair dye formulas which keep to 80% all-natural ingredients so that you can keep up your beauty routine without the risk of damaging and lasting effects.
With more than 20 available colors, and only 10 ingredients or less, these plant-derived hair dyes range from trendy rainbow shades to natural browns and blondes. Plus, it only requires water to mix and be ready to apply.
Active Ingredients: Henna | Type: Plant-based | Shades: 20 | Size: 3.5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: Yes
This ultra-gentle, ammonia-free option is deri
ved from natural sources like coconut and aloe vera. It’s available in 35 different colors and is best used to blend smaller patches or to enhance shades or shine. Expect this dye to last for up to 28 washes.
Active Ingredients: Coconut, aloe vera | Type: Demi-permanent | Shades: 38 | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No
This all-henna hair dye with no added chemicals comes in 9 colors. Unlike other hair dyes, henna based dyes, when mixed, have the consistency of oatmeal. After application, expect the color to last four to six weeks.
Active Ingredients: Henna | Type: Plant-based | Shades: 13 | Size: 4 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes
Other notable mentions:
Changing the way we buy and use beauty products
As a whole, we’ve gotten used to the radical way beauty products can enhance or alter our appearances, sometimes permanently. Our bodies were not meant to change in such a radical way, however. That’s why shifting from harsh chemicals to a more natural, chemical-free approach is important. Sure, the results may be different than what you are used to, but in the long run, the benefits of these products is what makes them a better solution to your beauty and health needs.
How can I begin to detoxify my routine?
Everyone’s detox journey is different. Going at it alone can also seem overwhelming. That’s why taking it step-by-step is the best practice to sustain long-term changes and lifestyles.
Joining a group detox program, with support from a cohort and leader to encourage and guide the group, can also be helpful. My Body-Mind-Spirit Detox program offers a two-week detox schedule that aims to remove nutritional and topical use of toxins and chemicals to fuel our bodies and minds.
To learn more about upcoming opportunity, visit my program’s website:
If you’d like to begin with a more individual approach, I offer a free complimentary consultation for all new members. You can schedule one now by clicking below: