Myth vs Fact

The chemists at P&G Beauty have shared some new color-related entries in their popular “Myth-busting” educational series. Familiar to attendees at the International Haircolor Exchange, the scientists subject old wives’ tales and received wisdom on hair to laboratory tests. Here are their latest findings.

 

MYTH: The #1 cause of hair color fade is improper application and processing.

FACT: The vast majority—up to 80%—of color fade is caused by simple exposure to water. “Healthy hair is protected by a layer of natural water resistance, known as the F-layer, that coats the cuticle,” says the team. “Unfortunately, coloring wears down this protective encasing, allowing water more access to the hair, causing fade.” The solution: prescribe color-conserving shampoos and conditioners, which mimic the F-layer’s water-repelling properties, for home use.

 

MYTH: Dandruff shampoos cause color to fade faster than shampoos with active anti-dandruff ingredients.

FACT: There’s no difference in the rate of fade among shampoos that aren’t color-caring, whether they’re anti-dandruff or not. “Even when compared to hair simply being rinsed with water, such medicated shampoos and conditioners did not show a significant impact on hair color,” researchers said. The solution: for dandruff-prone client, choose an anti-dandruff formula with color protection.

 

MYTH: Proper application of hair color can make up for poor hair condition.

FACT: Only up to a point. “Beginning the hair color process with healthy hair is integral to achieving the intended results,” says Lesley Bride, senior scientist at P&G Beauty. “Convincing your client to allow you to trim off lengthy, over-exposed ends will allow [you to give her] more vivid, even color.” Coupled with regular home conditioning, she says, frequent trims give you both the best results.