According to a recent study published by JAMA Ophthalmology, a woman reportedly partially lost her vision after using a hair dye containing PPD. Paraphenylenediamine, commonly known as PPD, is a chemical compound often used in permanent hair dyes. It is the component that helps achieve the intense and long-lasting colors you offer to your clients. But what about its composition? Is it dangerous for your health and that of your clients? Are there sustainable alternatives to PPD-free coloring available? Let’s analyze this substance from A to Z in this article, which will help you make informed choices.
Paraphenylenediamine is a chemical product from the benzene family that is highly allergenic. It acts as a coloring agent that penetrates directly into the hair fiber. Due to its ability to form complex pigments during oxidation, PPD helps create a varied palette of colors, from deep blacks to rich browns. PPD is a derivative of aniline and belongs to the category of aromatic amines. It is valued in the hairdressing industry for its performance and stability. When mixed with an oxidant, PPD undergoes a chemical reaction that generates permanent pigments that adhere to the hair fiber. This allows for a color that resists washing and sun exposure, providing a hold that can last for several weeks.
However, it is a dangerous component. It should be noted that PPD has been banned since 2005 by European legislation for all cosmetics intended to come into contact with the skin. However, it is still permitted in hair colors, provided that its concentration does not exceed 6%. This indicates how toxic this component can be…
Similar to PPD, PTD (paratoluenediamine) is also a hazardous coloring substance found in chemical hair dyes. It is essential to choose a PPD- and PTD-free coloring.
As a hairdresser, you are exposed daily to such substances. You are the most vulnerable as you handle colorings, sometimes with gloves and sometimes without. You also breathe in the substances they emit. It’s safe to say that this is not recommended at all. The risks are everywhere; your skin can take a hit, and even your health may be affected.
One of the main risks of PPD dye is the development of allergic reactions. These reactions can vary in severity and may manifest with symptoms such as:
Beyond allergies, the risks of developing something even more serious are high. Prolonged exposure to this substance can lead to asthma in some hairdressers or clients.
Even more concerning, there is a higher incidence of bladder or throat cancers among hairdressing professionals. No one wants to reach that point or face such harmful compounds in their work. It has become urgent to react and find healthier alternatives, such as PPD-free professional coloring.
Recently, we learned that vision could also be affected by this substance. A recent article from Science & Vie showed that after visiting a hair salon for a conventional dye job, a woman in her sixties began experiencing abnormal symptoms. Vision problems, blurred vision, or even dark spots… Upon investigating the composition of her dye, the doctor had no doubt. It was the hair color that caused these issues. He pointed out the presence of “aromatic amines,” which are actually paraphenylenediamine. This woman developed retinopathy, which partially deprived her of her sight. Fortunately, she is doing better today.
We are sure that you do not want to end up in that situation or cause this kind of damage to one of your clients. Now is the time to opt for PPD-free coloring or PPD-free dye.
Make no mistake, paraphenylenediamine is not essential for coloring hair. There are other solutions that allow you to protect the health of your clients and yourself while being free from this chemical compound.
There are PPD-free hair color options that color just as well and are equally effective. Take plant-based coloring, for example. It is a natural and completely sustainable solution that allows you to color your clients’ hair.
It is free from PPD and has many advantages:
Changing your concept to become a salon offering PPD-free coloring is not difficult. You just need to find the right partner and embark on this journey with confidence in your new concept. This is so important for your future and that of your clients.
Hairborist’s PPD-free plant-based coloring will allow you to take care of your health and that of your clients while preserving it to the maximum. Say goodbye to itching, irritations, inflammation, or respiratory issues. Your health should be a top priority, and it is not normal to have to take risks at work. Your daily routine should be healthy and free from chemicals.
That’s why we have developed numerous shade powders that provide a wide range of possibilities in plant-based coloring. Everyone can color their hair naturally, including those with the most sensitive scalps. We don’t want to leave anyone out because everyone’s health must be preserved.
If you want to get started with plant-based coloring, we are here to help. Our Hairborist advisors will provide you with all the information and will certainly train you to excel in mastering the techniques and specifics of this type of coloring. Just plants and water make the powder, making it truly easy!
