Dyeing your hair undoubtedly makes you look your best. However, after chemical colouring, hair becomes more fragile. The formulation and stripping action of conventional dyes alter the hair’s natural structure. As a result, the hair fibre becomes brittle and your hair thinner – an inordinate price to pay for beauty. Fortunately, there’s an alternative: natural colouring, which allows you to dye your hair while taking care of it. Discover these cosmetic treatments that are as effective as they are healthy, so you can take care of yourself naturally.
These days, more and more people are looking for natural solutions to care for their hair. Natural hair dyes are an excellent alternative to chemical dyes for giving your hair a new hue while protecting it.
Why opt for plant-based dyes?
Natural dyes have a number of advantages over chemical dyes. They are generally less aggressive on the scalp and hair, reduce the risk of allergies and are environmentally friendly.
Chemical dyes can damage hair structure, cause allergic reactions and pollute the environment.
Natural dyes
Natural hair colours are booming, driven by the trend towards healthy, environmentally-friendly cosmetics. Formulated with plant-based powders and natural pigments, they colour the hair without damaging it. Unlike chemical dyes, they protect the hair fibre and provide harmonious coverage without damaging the hair.
That’s why so many salons now offer plant-based hair colours made from henna, plant extracts and natural pigments. From golden blonde to coppery highlights, these varied formulas adapt to every desire.
The good news is that you can also get intense, natural colour at home, thanks to the 100% plant-based colouring kits available. Easy to apply, they’re perfect for radiant colour and healthy hair!
What are the different natural hair colours?
A number of plants and natural ingredients can be used to dye hair while caring for and strengthening it. Here are some of the most popular options.
Henna: the essential plant dye
Henna has been used since ancient times to colour hair. It offers a palette of shades ranging from red to dark brown, depending on your hair’s natural base and the length of time you use it.
How do I use it?
- Mix the henna powder with warm water until you have a smooth paste.
- Apply to clean, damp hair.
- Leave on for 1 to 3 hours.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Chamomile: for natural golden highlights
Perfect for blonde or light brown hair, chamomile naturally brightens and illuminates highlights.
Application tip:
Prepare a concentrated infusion of chamomile, leave it to cool, then rinse your hair with it after shampooing. Leave in for 20 minutes before rinsing.
Black tea: a solution for darkening hair
Black tea is ideal for achieving a deep brown colour. It strengthens hair while adding shine and lustre.
Tip:
Steep several tea bags in a small amount of hot water to obtain a concentrated dye. Apply the mixture to damp hair, leave on and rinse.
How do I maintain a natural dye?
Once you’ve chosen a natural hair colour, it’s essential to take the right steps to prolong the intensity of the colour while looking after your hair. Unlike chemical dyes, vegetable dyes require gentle care to reveal their brilliance day after day.
Opt for gentle, sulphate-free shampoos. These aggressive washing agents can dull the colour and dry out the hair fibre. Choose shampoos specially formulated for coloured hair or with natural ingredients or organic plant oils such as aloe vera, oatmeal or coconut oil. Wash your hair in lukewarm water to avoid weakening the fibre and washing out the colour too quickly.
Protect your hair from environmental damage. The sun, wind, sea salt and chlorine from swimming pools can alter colour and make your hair dull. If you’re going to be in the sun for a long time, wear a hat or use a hair spray with a UV filter. Not only will your hair stay shiny, but you’ll also preserve its natural softness and moisture.
Moisturise deeply. Natural colours, even if they’re less aggressive, can slightly dry out the lengths. Give them a weekly nourishing treatment with a moisturising mask or vegetable oil (such as argan, castor or avocado oil). For maximum hydration, apply the oil to your ends the night before shampooing and leave overnight.
3 Chênes Color & Soin: natural hair colour that takes care of you
There’s no better way to gently colour your hair than with Color & Soin®, the brand that has been pioneering permanent haircolour with plant extracts in pharmacies for over 20 years. Formulated with an oleo-protein complex, these colours provide total coverage of white hair from the very first application, while protecting the hair fibre and preserving its suppleness and shine.
Ammonia-, paraben-, resorcinol- and silicone-free, Color & Soin® is easy to apply and odour-free. In just 20 minutes, achieve intense, long-lasting colour with natural shades: from golden chestnut to Venetian blonde, with copper or hazelnut highlights.
Our advice
Natural dyes are an excellent alternative for caring for your hair and giving it a new colour without damaging it. Henna, chamomile and black tea are three natural and effective options for colouring your hair in a way that respects its integrity and the environment.
FAQ
- Can plant-based dyes cover grey hair? Some natural dyes, such as henna, can cover white hair, but it may take several applications to get optimal coverage.
- Do natural colours last as long as chemical colours? Natural haircolour generally lasts less than chemical haircolour. However, by taking good care of your hair and using the right products, you can extend the life of your natural hair colour.
- Is it possible to mix different natural colours to obtain a personalised shade? Yes, you can mix different natural colours to obtain a unique shade. However, we recommend that you test a section of hair before applying the mixture to your entire head.
- Are natural colours suitable for all hair types? Natural colours are suitable for most hair types. However, it’s important to choose a colour that suits the colour and texture of your hair. If you’re not sure, don’t hesitate to consult a professional for advice.
- Is it safe to switch from chemical to natural hair colour? It is generally possible to switch from chemical colouring to natural colouring without any problems. However, it is advisable to wait until the chemical colouring has faded and to carry out a deep treatment to repair any damage caused by the chemicals before applying natural colouring.
On Soin et Nature, you’ll find all the advice from doctors of pharmacy to help you get the best from your hair colour.
