On today’s vedaTalk, we are excited to welcome Judith, a skilled hair colorist from the khadi ColorCrew. In this episode, Stella dives into one of the most common questions people ask when switching to natural hair coloring: What’s the real difference between Conventional and Natural, Plant-based Hair Color?
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The Key Differences: Conventional vs. Natural
Judith begins by highlighting a crucial distinction: where the color works. Conventional hair color uses strong alkalizing agents like ammonia to penetrate the hair shaft. This process opens the hair cuticle (similar to a pine cone), allowing artificial pigments to enter and develop through an oxidation process triggered by hydrogen peroxide. While effective at changing color, this process can weaken and damage the hair, making it more fragile.
In contrast, Natural Plant-Based hair color works on the surface of the hair. Natural pigments wrap around the hair shaft without disturbing its inner structure, allowing your hair’s natural highlights to shine through. This method not only preserves the hair’s integrity but also enhances shine by smoothing gaps along the cuticle. As Judith puts it, the result is hair that “shines like a mirror.” Stella vividly describes how plant pigments gently embrace the hair, blending seamlessly with its natural color.
Repairing Damaged Hair
If your hair feels brittle or damaged from years of chemical treatments, there’s good news. Judith explains that plant-based hair color can help improve the appearance of damaged hair. The pigments coat the hair shaft, smoothing rough spots and filling in porous areas, resulting in a healthier look. For severely damaged or bleached hair, Judith recommends a pre-treatment with a neutral shade like Senna-Cassia or using khadi ColorPrep before applying darker colors. This step helps fill in gaps, ensuring an even and vibrant final result. Stella reassures viewers that plant-based hair color is a safe and gentle option, making it hard to go wrong.
Caring for Your Scalp
Stella raises an important point: the health of your scalp. Conventional hair color are highly alkaline, with a pH above 7, while the scalp’s natural pH is between 4.5 and 5. This mismatch can cause irritation and swelling, weakening the hair at its roots. In contrast, plant-based hair colors have a lower, more natural pH level that is gentle on the scalp. The tannins in plant ingredients can even help soothe irritation, making this method ideal for sensitive skin. Stella sums it up: Natural Hair Color is the healthiest choice from root to tip, offering brilliant shades and complete coverage without compromising scalp health.
Ready to Make the Switch?
If you’re considering a healthier, more natural approach to hair coloring, Plant-based Hair Color might be the perfect solution.
