Colorants

In a study, it was shown that other than the smell, the color of a hair product plays a big part in consumer choices. I mean when you think about it, millennial pink vs hickory brown colored shampoo and conditioner, not many will choose the latter.  Colorants are substances specifically added to hair products to provide a specific color (think marketing and branding) hide discoloration over time and even out the natural coloring in a product. 

 

Products get their color from a variety of sources. The specific source of color depends on the type of product and the desired effect. Here are some common types of colorants used in hair products:

 

Synthetic colorants: These colorants are chemically synthesized compounds designed to provide a wide range of colors. Synthetic colorants often offer vibrant and consistent hues, and they can be easily produced in large quantities. Examples of synthetic colorants include D&C (Drug and Cosmetic) dyes and lakes.

 

Natural colorants: They are derived from various natural sources such as plants, fruits, vegetables, minerals, and even insects. Natural colorants are typically obtained through extraction or processing methods. Examples of natural colorants include beetroot extract, turmeric, annatto, spirulina, caramel, and cochineal extract.

 

Under these above broad categories, we have both pigments and dyes which are quite different in their composition.

 

Pigments: They can be both natural and synthetic in origin. Natural pigments are derived from minerals, rocks, and earth, while synthetic pigments are chemically produced. Pigments offer a more opaque and intense color compared to dyes. They are insoluble particles or powders that are dispersed in a liquid or solid, to provide color and remain suspended in the medium without dissolving. They often sit on the surface of the hair and cause loads of build-up.

 

Examples of pigments include titanium dioxide (white pigment), iron oxides (red, yellow, and black pigments), and ultramarine blue.

 

Dye: (The bane of hair care), They can be both natural and synthetic in origin and are sourced as mentioned above in the broader categories. 

Dyes however are soluble substances that dissolve in the applied medium and are more reactive and sensitive to pH. They can penetrate the hair to some extent and affect the state of the hair and even cause product buildups. 

 

Examples include FD&C Blue No. 1 (Brilliant Blue FCF), D&C Red No. 33 (Acid Red 33), and FD&C Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine).

 

 

Colorants are concerning for a lot of people as synthetic ones can affect the hair directly (moisture and porosity levels) as well as some natural colorants can also stain light-colored hair and give an undesired effect. It's important to be aware of colorants in your products especially if you have allergies or sensitivities and color-treated hair. Formulation as always plays a big part in the final effects of a product which is why using products from reputable companies is extremely important.