How much hair colour is too much hair colour?

Some do it for fun, and some to hide the traces of ageing, but it’s rare to find anyone who hasn’t tried or considered colouring their tresses.
And it’s no surprise that hair transformations are often linked to new beginnings. The saying ‘new hair, new me’ holds a certain truth, and we are all for it.
From subtle streaks to bold balayage or a full-on global colour, we’ve experimented with various techniques to enhance our look.
But have you ever paused to think about how these hair colouring treatments affect the health of your tresses, or when it might be time to draw the line?
“Hair colour alters the structure of your hair by opening the cuticle and depositing pigments within,” mentions Dr Ruby Sachdev, consultant – aesthetic physician, Gleneagles Hospital, Bengaluru, while talking to India Today.
Adding to this, Dr Shireen Furtado, senior consultant, medical and cosmetic dermatology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, says that the application of hair colour significantly changes the appearance and characteristics of the hair strands.
“This can lead to various changes in their texture, shine, and overall look. When the colour is applied, it penetrates into the hair shaft and causes a chemical reaction that changes the natural pigment of the hair,” she shares.
This process not only enhances the visual appeal by introducing new shades and tones but can also affect the hair’s health, potentially making it more porous or susceptible to damage if not properly maintained.

Hair colour can also change the texture of your tresses (Photo: Getty Images)

Hair colour can weaken the strands, especially if harsh chemicals are involved, leading to dryness and breakage. Permanent hair dyes contain ammonia or ammonia substitutes, which help the colour penetrate the hair shaft, can also damage the cuticle and inner structure.
Dr Furtado shares that it’s common for people to bleach their hair before applying colour. Doing so helps lighten the natural pigment of the hair, creating a better base for the desired shade.
“Bleaching removes the natural pigment from your hair using strong oxidisers like hydrogen peroxide. While it allows for vibrant colour application, it strips the hair of its protective oils, weakening the strands and making them prone to breakage, split ends, and extreme dryness,” adds Dr Sachdev.
Hair colour applied to bleached hair typically lasts longer, as the hair is more porous, allowing for deeper colour penetration.
Additionally, the duration of hair colour can vary significantly based on several factors, including the type of dye used, the hair’s natural texture, and the maintenance routine followed after application.
It’s important to be aware of the damage that bleaching can cause to the hair structure. The chemicals involved can lead to dryness, brittleness, and breakage if not applied correctly or if proper aftercare is not followed.

Regularly bleaching your hair can be extremely harmful (Photo: Getty Images)

According to Dr Sachdev, there is no strict age bar for hair colouring, but it is advisable to wait until after adolescence, when hair texture and scalp health are more stable.
Younger individuals may have more sensitive scalps, so it’s best to avoid harsh chemical treatments in their early years.
The doctor further mentions that if hair is coloured more than once every 4-6 weeks or subjected to frequent bleaching, it can lead to cumulative damage. It is suggested to give your hair a break between colouring sessions to maintain its health.
“If you notice excessive dryness, breakage, or loss of shine, it’s time to reconsider the frequency,” she says.
On the other hand, Dr Furtado shares, “Determining the right amount of hair colour can be subjective, as it depends on personal preferences, cultural norms, and individual style. However, it’s important to consider factors such as the overall health of the hair, how often it’s coloured, and the potential for damage.”
“You should find a balance between expressing your creativity through hair colour and keeping your hair healthy. It’s essential to assess when colouring starts to damage your hair or becomes too much work, and then reconsider your colouring practices,” she adds.
By now, you know that excessive hair colouring can cause chronic dryness, split ends, scalp irritation, and even hair loss.
Not only that, but the harsh chemicals commonly found in hair dyes, such as ammonia and peroxide, can also strip the hair of its natural oils, resulting in compromised hair structure and a lacklustre appearance.
Recovery from such damage typically involves a multifaceted approach, including the use of deep conditioning treatments, minimising further chemical exposure, and adopting a gentler haircare routine.
Incorporating nourishing oils and protein-rich products can also help restore moisture and strength to the hair, promoting healthier growth over time.
Experts feel that traditional options such as mehendi and shikakai offer certain benefits compared to contemporary alternatives.
These natural substances have been used for centuries in various cultures for their unique properties, which can include promoting hair health, enhancing colour, and providing nourishment without the harsh chemicals often found in modern haircare products.
“The use of these time-honoured remedies can appeal to individuals seeking a more holistic approach to beauty, as they are often perceived as safer and more environmentally friendly,” says Dr Furtado.
Meanwhile, Dr Sachdev states that henna not only colours the hair but also strengthens it. However, natural options tend to have more subtle colour results and may not offer the same range of shades as synthetic dyes.

If you’re seeking a natural alternative, try desi remedies (Photo: Getty Images)