Naturalmente - Effective hair care through quality Ingredients

A closer look at some of the main ingredients of the environmentally-friendly Naturalmente hair care range

• Zinc Coceth Sulphate (derived from Coconut and Zinc) has remarkable properties; as a detergent with an acidic pH of 4.5 (similar to healthy skin and hair), it is very mild and gentle on the skin. And due to its ability to deposit zinc basic salts onto the skin, it purifies, deodorizes and works against dandruff. It is an excellent ingredient which effectively addresses hair cleansing and scalp care needs, simultaneously.
  

• Olive Amphoacetate (derived from olive oil) is used together with zinc coceth sulphate to give a soft nourishing cleanse with perfect hydration.

• Naturalmente products are rich in essential oils and range between 0.8 and 2.5% of the products. The essential oils, mixed with pure cold pressed sweet almond oil, are used to maintain a healthy scalp and hair. All the essential oils are pure and derived from biological, biodynamic or natural agriculture.
  
  The aroma of Naturalmente products are therefore the result of these blends, extracted from plants, flowers, fruit and roots, and imported from all over the world in order to get the best quality oils.
  
  Naturalmente is preservative-free and the essential oils are guaranteed with a long shelf life.

• All the vegetable extracts used in Naturalmente are functional and improve the performance of the products for the best cosmetic results. They are also biocompatible and don't expire.

• Silica, extracted from the quartz crystals in white sand, provides protection and give shine. Studies in the former Soviet Union indicate that when organic silica is added to shampoo, it helps slow or stop the process of hair loss.
  
  Silica is photodegradable (meaning that it pulverises in sunlight) and doesn't leave any residue on the hair. It is made of short molecules, so it becomes powder again, part of the environment, and is easily washed away out of the hair, giving body and shine. This is remarkable compared to silicones, which have long-chain molecules and therefore not environmentally-friendly but  are widely used in personal hygiene and cosmetic products.

Introduction to Naturalmente - 100% Natural Professional Hair Care

Hair Colour, Cleansing, Care and Styling

Naturalmente aims to successfully raise awareness of environmentally-friendly personal wellness products.

The Naturalmente range uses 100% pure essential oils and specially cultivated organic ingredients ensuring that the products are free from pesticides and petrochemical fertilizers.

It contains no Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS), Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES), Parabens, Formaldehyde, Ammonia, Diathanolamine or synthetc perfumes.

More about Naturalmente's policy to respect nature:

• Never during any stage of development are any of the products tested on animals
• None of the products contain any ingredients of animal origin
• Raw ingredients are produced biologically and organically and are certified worldwide.
• And the packaging is even made of material that does not release toxic gasses when burnt.

Apart from the great personal benefits achieved, the Naturalmente formulas are highly concentrated resulting in a very cost effective product because of the high yield achieved from small applications.

Testimonials
"I am so totally impressed with the Naturalmente shampoos and hair care. [My husband]'s bald spot has completely covered up with thick hair growth. He thought he had lost it forever and even tried some not-so-natural products. Just shampooing with Naturalmente's shampoos and using their conditioner has reversed his hair loss.

It seems to me that even the 95% natural products we were using had a detrimental effect on his head..and mine for that matter. I was losing hair at rate (all literature said it was menopausal) so I just thought that I had enough hair to carry me through (must admit I panicked on some days).

Well now if I lose 1-2 hairs a day that would be a lot! My hair is also losing the frizzy menopausal texture and reverting to my previous strong and curly but flatter hair. Each wash gets better and better. Completely impressed with how long it lasts. Started using 5 months ago and am only half way through the bottle, so looks like it can last close to a year" - Mary-Ann & Mark Shearer (The Natural Way), Somerset West, South Africa

"What a fantastic product! I will be recommending this to all of my friends" - Jill

"It is wonderful stuff for fine hair, with a tendency to droop - I am thrilled with it" - Kathleen, Scotland

"Dear Angie & all at Naturalmente, I would like to tell you all how grateful I am to have such a fabulous product in my salon. I have been able to transform not only my own hair but also so many of my clients'. The joy of instantly being able to give a client shiny silky hair that they have never been able to feel their whole lives is unbelievable. I just can't believe that it has taken so long but thank you all involved for bringing this range to Cape Town" - Callo Hair Designs, Cape Town, South Africa

"I have never been so delighted with a retail range that has had as many repeat sales. Definitely brings hair back to its true nature!!" - Renergize (Hair Salon), Plumstead, Cape Town, South Africa

"I was given samples to try, and wasn't all that helpful, assuming it was all sales talk. Loved using the products, when they ran out I went back to my normal products - I can't stand them anymore! I HAVE to use these products! They are 'simply the best'! My hair has never felt better! Amazing!!" - Matthew, Randburg, South Africa

"I have been using Naturalmente shampoo and conditioning treatments for 5 months. My hair is in the best condition, shiny and healthy. My hair is growing faster and there is a lot more of it. I use the Smoothing Solution to calm my curls and love that I can run my fingers through it without getting stuck, so natural. I have received so many compliments from my friends!" - Jénine

"Love the products. I had my colour done and it is great. The shampoo and conditioner make my hair shiny and it smells yummy!" - Chelsea (17 years)

"Since I have been using Naturalmente products, my wavy/curly hair has been shiny and soft. I've also had colour done and the result was wonderful. A rich, vibrant colour that lasts for ages. Now whether I wear my hair curly or straight, it looks and feels great!!" - Shelley

"I really appreciate your honesty and your unique approach to hair! I am so happy with the results of the blue conditioner, it is a huge improvement!!" - Terry

I have also noticed that the Naturalmente products sell themselves in the sense that clients ask for the products more than hairdressers spend time talking about them. And clients will be so genuinely excited about the results that others will overhear and will want to buy them too. For example one client told me she bought Naturalmente Rosemary and Lavender shampoo for her husband after she heard another lady saying that her husband's bald spot had started growing hair again.

You will find more information about Naturalmente available on Facebook at Naturalmente South Africa; including a comprehensive brochure which introduces you to the various shampoos, conditioners, treatments and styling aids.

www.naturalmente.co.za

The Cosmetic use of Silicones for hair

Silicone is an ingredient used in a number of cosmetic products, including creams, lotions, moisturiser, foundation, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, hair treatments (even Brazilian keratin treatments), heat protection sprays/ creams, and it is even in hair colouring products.

Image source: E-how

It used for making the skin and hair feel soft and smooth, and also for looking healthier and younger; the skin is left feeling velvety, wrinkles are reduced and the hair feels silkier and more manageable. It this way, silicones temporarily improve the texture of the skin and hair.

Silicone has low toxicity, thermal stability (heat-resistant) and a viscous consistency, much like honey. You can spot it in an ingredients list most commonly labelled as dimethicone, or else you will see cyclomethicone, phenyltrimethicone or amodimethicone .

Just about every haircare range has their own version of silicone serum which contains this ingredient. A well-known example would be Paul Mitchell's Super Skinny Serum.

Image source: http://www.hairstylepro.com.au/

Silicone serums are used before blow-drying as they provide heat protection and help to smooth the hair for easier styling. Once the hair is dried the serum can also be used on dry hair for extra gloss and to smooth fly-aways.

Silicone also provides UV protection and colour protection and does not disturb the skin's natural functioning (transpiration). So, with all these benefits highlighted, it's no wonder that hairdressers around the world rely on silicone serum to create remarkable results.

Image source: Health Heap

Environmental Effects?
One source says that silicone comes from a polymer, or a long-chain molecule, such as [Si(CH₃)2O]_n which is not easily degradable or removable. However another source says it degrades to silica (powder) and/or silicone dioxide (silica fumes) and trace amounts of water and a gas such as CO_2. This may seemingly only occur when it is burnt though.

Silica SiO₂ is made of short molecules and becomes powdery (Remember that stuff in pill bottles that eliminates excess moisture in the bottle? It's called silica). It becomes part of the environment, whereas silicones are apparently not environmentally friendly and are resistant to degradation.

Silicones (particularly dimethicone), have been shown to be safe by the Cosmetics Review Board. The US Food and Drug Administration has also approved dimethicone as safe for use in skin-care and personal-care products.
But it is not regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) or Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA).

Read more here: Is Dimethicone Safe for Humans?

 Image source: AOL Shopping

Using silicone serum at home

So it seems we can happily use silicone for making our hair shiny and manageable without too much concern. The only consideration you will need to bear in mind is not to use an excessive amount. With silicone a little goes a long way, especially on hair that is in good condition already.

Hair that is dry, damaged, colour-treated or incredibly curly may soak up more serum than others but it is still best to apply a small amount at a time.

Also try different application techniques. Sometimes it is better to apply silicone when the hair is still damp so that it glides on easily with only a small amount. If the hair is naturally very dry then applying on dry hair will allow you to see how much is needed as you can apply more and test the texture of the hair as you go.

Last Touch

You know I spoke of the US Food and Drug Administration earlier? Well apparently silicone can be found in many processed foods and fast food items such as McDonald's Chicken McNuggets. lol. That just seems so wrong, doesn't it? :P

If you enjoyed this post you may also be interested in: Treat Your Tresses

Hair Dye Allergy, Henna & Pregnancy

Itchiness & Allergies

Many people experience itchiness from hair dye. Redness and sensitivity can develop immediately, or over time, and it is quite common. Considering the level of ammonia (extremely alkaline at a ph of 12.5, whereas skin is 5.5) and other irritating and toxic chemicals (such as PPD and Resorcinal), this is hardly surprising.

A more severe and less common reaction to hair dye is an all-out allergic reaction with inflammation and swelling. In this case special care (even hospitalization) is required. Care should be taken as soon as possible since inflamed hair follicles can result in permanent hair loss and baldness if left untreated for too long. I would recommend seeing a doctor within 24 to 48 hours if any inflammation occurs at all.

Henna tattoos
Also consider the correlation between tattoos and allergic reaction. Permanent tattoos do not contain the chemical PPD but black henna does (see PPD Info) and can make a person more sensitive to hair dye. Think of it in terms of exposure to the chemicals; the more often you are exposed to the chemicals the more likely you are to develop a sensitivity or an allergic reaction.

Unfortunately once you have an allergic reaction, you are highly unlikely to be able to tolerate hair colouring products again so it is something to consider and be aware of if you are already sensitive.

Compromised Health
With regards to people with lupus or cancer I would recommend not dying your hair as a matter of limiting all unnecessary contact with chemicals unless you are able to find an incredibly mild, non-toxic hair dye. Nowadays there are a lot more options on the market, but you would have to do your homework on them and make sure your doctor is okay with it.

Pregnancy
Pregnancy is also a time to consider your health and safety for your baby's sake. Another option for hair colour during pregnancy is to do colour in foils rather than a full head application. This way the colour does not touch your skin while it is processing (oxidising).

For more information about the specific chemicals that are reason for concern, see blog post Permanent Hair Dye - Ingredients

Permanent Hair Dye - Ingredients

Synthetic hair colour contains various amounts of chemicals to achieve the desired lift, intensity, cover and hold for permanent hair colouring. The amounts can vary with different brands and therefore results vary as well as the impact that it has on your health and the environment.

The following discussion of chemicals looks at the ingredients that are most dominant, most common, or most toxic, or simply raise concerns with consumers. I hope it will help you to understand what really is a problem and what isn't. However, there are gray areas, which is why these products are still on the market, and it is up to you to make an informed choice.

1) Ammonia

Ammonia is considered to be an occupational hazard and also hazardous in the household environment as it is used in cleaning products. It is the most common and most offensive ingredient in permanent hair colour as it gives off strong fumes that are irritating to the eyes, lungs, and to a lesser extent, the skin.

In industrial uses, the ammonia vapour from concentrated ammonia solutions is severely irritating to the eyes and the respiratory tract, and protective measures are required for safety.

Source: healthandbeautyace.com

In hair dye, ammonia is used to open the cuticles (outer layer) of the hair in order to deposit the artificial colour pigments within the hair structure. It is extremely alkaline (ph 9 - ph 12.5) and is particularly damaging to the hair's natural protein structure. Ammonia-treated hair becomes very dry and coarse which is usually masked by the addition of silicones (synthetic softeners) to the hair dye. Over time the silicones wash out, the colour fades and the true condition of the hair becomes apparent.

2) PPD

p-Phenylenediamine (PPD) is an ingredient in hair dyes, most dominantly used in darker colours and is known to cause allergic reactions; it was even voted Allergen of the Year in 2006. It often causes redness on sensitive skin and can also be found in "black" or dark henna mixes (Natural henna only produces a reddish colour).

All permanent hair colour products require PPDs to alter your natural hair colour. Though the research is inconclusive it has been suggested that PPDs are potentially harmful. The current European legislation allows for PPD's to compromise up to 6% of a hair dye product whereas most brands contain a maximum of 2.1%. The safest products would be those with less than 1% PPD. However, it is recommended that pregnant ladies and people undergoing chemotherapy do not use any permanent dye that will be in contact with the skin whilst it is processing.

I also want to reinforce that the darker the hair colour the more PPD is in it so ladies who frequently dye their hair dark brown or black are more exposed to it than others.

For more information on PPD allergy see: http://dermnetnz.org/dermatitis/paraphenylenediamine-allergy.html
With regards to the safety of the chemical see: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/P-Phenylenediamine#Safety
Another good article, indicating the use of PPD in dark henna mixes: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-para-phenylenediamine-ppd.htm

3) Resorcinol

A common ingredient in hair colours and bleach, resorcinol is a skin irritant that is toxic to the immune system and a frequent cause of hair dye allergy, however  there are no regulations limiting the amounts of resorcinol in personal care products and it is even used for medical purposes including the treatment of acne, psoriasis and eczema. See Wise Geek for more information.

4) Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen Peroxide (H202) is not a serious hazard. It is simply oxidised water that breaks down to oxygen and water during the colouring process. At low volumes it is not harmful or volatile (up to 12% is used in hairdressing) and is environmentally-friendly as it occurs naturally. It does however dry the skin out and will whiten the skin temporarily, so gloves should be worn when handling H2O2.

Very low levels (3-6%) are needed for the deposit of hair colour on the same or darker level as one's natural hair colour. And higher levels are used for lift (lightening) and speeding up the colouring process.

Tips

Essentially, PPD and Ammonia shouldn't have contact with the skin, but with the process of colouring the roots of the hair, especially to cover gray, it is impossible to avoid this. When other options for hair colour are not available here are some tips for safer colouring:

1. Always use protective gloves when applying.
2. Apply vasoline around the hairline to prevent the colour from getting on the skin next to your hairline.
3. Do not inhale the hair dye directly and ensure that there is good ventilation once the colour is mixed.
4. Do not exceed the manufacturer's maximum processing time. Be careful to time it and keep to those limits.
5. Ensure that the hair dye cream/paste is removed 100% from the hair and scalp after processing.
6. It would be recommended to use a shampoo with the following characteristics: clarifying, ph balanced (the hair/scalp is 4.5 - 5.5) or slightly more acidic (3).

For more information see the blog post Hair Dye Allergy, Henna & Pregnancy.