As the world shifts towards a more natural and sustainable lifestyle, many of us are looking for ways to make our beauty routines more eco-friendly. One of the most popular trends in recent years is the use of natural shampoos, which are free from harsh chemicals and artificial ingredients. However, if you have coloured hair, you may be wondering if natural shampoos are suitable for you. In this article, we’ll explore the world of natural shampoos and coloured hair, and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
What is Natural Shampoo?
Before we dive into the world of coloured hair, let’s first define what natural shampoo is. Natural shampoo is a type of shampoo that is made from natural ingredients, such as plant extracts, essential oils, and minerals. These ingredients are often biodegradable and free from harsh chemicals, making them a popular choice for those with sensitive scalps or skin.
Natural shampoos can be made from a variety of ingredients, including:
- Plant extracts, such as aloe vera, chamomile, and lavender
- Essential oils, such as tea tree oil, rosemary oil, and eucalyptus oil
- Minerals, such as clay, silica, and zinc
- Natural surfactants, such as coconut oil and olive oil
How Does Natural Shampoo Affect Coloured Hair?
Now that we’ve defined what natural shampoo is, let’s talk about how it affects coloured hair. Coloured hair can be more prone to dryness and damage, especially if you use permanent dyes or bleach. Natural shampoos can be a great option for coloured hair, as they are often gentler and more nourishing than traditional shampoos.
However, not all natural shampoos are created equal. Some natural shampoos can strip the hair of its colour, while others can help to lock in the colour and moisture. It’s essential to choose a natural shampoo that is specifically formulated for coloured hair.
Benefits of Using Natural Shampoo on Coloured Hair
There are several benefits to using natural shampoo on coloured hair, including:
- Gentle and non-stripping: Natural shampoos are often gentler than traditional shampoos, which means they won’t strip the hair of its colour or moisture.
- Nourishing and moisturizing: Natural shampoos can help to lock in moisture and nourish the hair, leaving it soft and silky.
- Colour-protecting: Some natural shampoos contain ingredients that help to protect the colour of the hair, such as antioxidants and plant extracts.
- Environmentally friendly: Natural shampoos are often biodegradable and free from harsh chemicals, making them a more sustainable choice.
Things to Consider When Using Natural Shampoo on Coloured Hair
While natural shampoos can be a great option for coloured hair, there are a few things to consider before making the switch. These include:
- Colour fade: Some natural shampoos can cause colour fade, especially if you use permanent dyes or bleach.
- Dryness and damage: Natural shampoos can be drying, especially if you have dry or damaged hair.
- Build-up: Some natural shampoos can leave a residue on the hair, which can weigh it down and cause build-up.
How to Choose the Right Natural Shampoo for Coloured Hair
Choosing the right natural shampoo for coloured hair can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available. Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice:
- Look for colour-protecting ingredients: Ingredients like antioxidants, plant extracts, and vitamins can help to protect the colour of the hair.
- Choose a gentle and non-stripping formula: Look for a shampoo that is gentle and non-stripping, as this will help to preserve the colour and moisture of the hair.
- Consider your hair type: If you have dry or damaged hair, look for a shampoo that is moisturizing and nourishing. If you have oily hair, look for a shampoo that is lightweight and oil-controlling.
- Read reviews and do your research: Read reviews from other users with coloured hair to see how a particular shampoo performs.
Top Ingredients to Look for in a Natural Shampoo for Coloured Hair
Here are some top ingredients to look for in a natural shampoo for coloured hair:
- Antioxidants: Antioxidants like vitamin E and green tea extract can help to protect the colour of the hair from environmental stressors.
- Plant extracts: Plant extracts like aloe vera, chamomile, and lavender can help to soothe and calm the hair, while also protecting the colour.
- Vitamins: Vitamins like vitamin B and vitamin C can help to nourish and moisturize the hair, while also protecting the colour.
- Natural oils: Natural oils like coconut oil, olive oil, and argan oil can help to moisturize and nourish the hair, while also protecting the colour.
Top Natural Shampoos for Coloured Hair
Here are some top natural shampoos for coloured hair:
- Briogeo Colour Protect Shampoo: This shampoo is formulated with antioxidants and plant extracts to help protect the colour of the hair.
- Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Shampoo: This shampoo is formulated with natural oils and vitamins to help nourish and moisturize the hair.
- Aveda Colour Enhance Shampoo: This shampoo is formulated with plant extracts and antioxidants to help enhance and protect the colour of the hair.
- SheaMoisture Colour Protect Shampoo: This shampoo is formulated with natural oils and vitamins to help nourish and moisturize the hair, while also protecting the colour.
Conclusion
Natural shampoos can be a great option for coloured hair, as they are often gentler and more nourishing than traditional shampoos. However, it’s essential to choose a natural shampoo that is specifically formulated for coloured hair, and to consider your hair type and needs. By following the tips and recommendations outlined in this article, you can find a natural shampoo that helps to protect and preserve the colour of your hair.
Final Tips for Using Natural Shampoo on Coloured Hair
Here are some final tips for using natural shampoo on coloured hair:
- Always read the label: Make sure to read the label and look for ingredients that are gentle and non-stripping.
- Do a patch test: Do a patch test before using a new shampoo to make sure you don’t have any sensitivity or allergic reactions.
- Use a colour-protecting conditioner: Use a colour-protecting conditioner to help lock in the colour and moisture of the hair.
- Be patient: Natural shampoos can take some time to adjust to, so be patient and give your hair time to adjust.
Can I use natural shampoo on coloured hair?
Natural shampoos can be a great option for coloured hair, but it’s essential to choose the right one. Look for a natural shampoo that is specifically formulated for coloured hair and contains ingredients that help to lock in colour and moisture. Some natural ingredients, such as plant extracts and essential oils, can be beneficial for coloured hair, while others may strip the hair of its colour.
When shopping for a natural shampoo for coloured hair, read the ingredient label carefully and avoid shampoos that contain harsh ingredients like sulfates, parabens, and silicones. Instead, opt for a shampoo that is gentle, sulfate-free, and formulated with natural ingredients that nourish and protect the hair. It’s also a good idea to do a patch test before using a new shampoo to ensure that it doesn’t cause any colour fade or damage.
What are the benefits of using natural shampoo on coloured hair?
Using a natural shampoo on coloured hair can have several benefits. Natural shampoos are often gentler and less stripping than conventional shampoos, which can help to preserve the colour and vibrancy of the hair. Natural ingredients like plant extracts and essential oils can also help to nourish and moisturize the hair, leaving it feeling soft and looking healthy.
Additionally, natural shampoos can be a great option for people with coloured hair who are looking for a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional shampoos. Many natural shampoos are free from harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances, making them a better choice for the environment and for people with sensitive scalps or skin.
Will natural shampoo cause colour fade?
Not all natural shampoos will cause colour fade, but some may. It depends on the ingredients used in the shampoo. Some natural ingredients, such as citrus essential oils, can be stripping and cause colour to fade faster. On the other hand, some natural ingredients like plant extracts and antioxidants can help to lock in colour and moisture.
To minimize colour fade when using a natural shampoo, look for a shampoo that is specifically formulated for coloured hair and contains ingredients that help to preserve colour. You can also use a colour-protecting conditioner or a colour-depositing treatment to help lock in colour and moisture. Regular trims and touch-ups can also help to maintain the health and vibrancy of coloured hair.
How do I choose the right natural shampoo for my coloured hair?
Choosing the right natural shampoo for coloured hair can be overwhelming, but there are a few things to look for. First, read the ingredient label carefully and avoid shampoos that contain harsh ingredients like sulfates, parabens, and silicones. Instead, opt for a shampoo that is gentle, sulfate-free, and formulated with natural ingredients that nourish and protect the hair.
Also, consider your hair type and the level of colour you have. If you have dry or damaged hair, look for a shampoo that is moisturizing and nourishing. If you have oily hair, look for a shampoo that is lightweight and oil-controlling. If you have recently coloured your hair, look for a shampoo that is specifically formulated for coloured hair and contains ingredients that help to lock in colour and moisture.
Can I use natural shampoo on bleached or highlighted hair?
Natural shampoos can be a great option for bleached or highlighted hair, but it’s essential to choose the right one. Bleached or highlighted hair can be dry and damaged, so it’s essential to use a shampoo that is moisturizing and nourishing. Look for a shampoo that is specifically formulated for bleached or highlighted hair and contains ingredients that help to hydrate and protect the hair.
Some natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and argan oil can be beneficial for bleached or highlighted hair. These ingredients can help to moisturize and nourish the hair, leaving it feeling soft and looking healthy. However, it’s essential to avoid shampoos that contain harsh ingredients like sulfates, parabens, and silicones, which can strip the hair of its moisture and cause damage.
How often should I use natural shampoo on my coloured hair?
The frequency of using natural shampoo on coloured hair depends on your hair type and the level of colour you have. If you have dry or damaged hair, it’s best to use a natural shampoo 1-2 times a week to avoid stripping the hair of its moisture. If you have oily hair, you can use a natural shampoo 2-3 times a week to keep the hair clean and oil-free.
It’s also essential to consider the type of natural shampoo you are using. Some natural shampoos can be gentle and non-stripping, while others may be more harsh. If you are using a gentle natural shampoo, you can use it more frequently. However, if you are using a more harsh natural shampoo, it’s best to use it less frequently to avoid damaging the hair.
Can I use natural conditioner with natural shampoo on coloured hair?
Yes, you can use a natural conditioner with a natural shampoo on coloured hair. In fact, using a natural conditioner can help to lock in moisture and colour, leaving the hair feeling soft and looking healthy. Look for a natural conditioner that is specifically formulated for coloured hair and contains ingredients that help to nourish and protect the hair.
Some natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and argan oil can be beneficial for coloured hair. These ingredients can help to moisturize and nourish the hair, leaving it feeling soft and looking healthy. When using a natural conditioner, apply it to the ends of the hair and work your way up to the roots, avoiding the scalp. Leave the conditioner on for 1-2 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.