Chemical alteration of hair

Chemical alterations like perming, coloring can be carried out to change the perceived quality and texture of hair. Most of these are temporary alterations, however, permanent alterations are also possible.

Chemical alteration of hair only affects the hair above the scalp; unless the hair roots are damaged, new hair will grow in with natural color and texture.


Hair coloring

Hair coloring is the process of adding pigment to or removing pigment from the hair shaft. Hair coloring processes may be referred to as dyeing or bleaching, depending on whether you are adding or removing pigment.

Temporary hair tints simply coat the shaft with pigments which later wash off.

Most permanent color changes require that the cuticle of the hair be opened so the color change can take place within the cuticle. This process, which uses chemicals to alter the structure of the hair, can damage the cuticle or internal structure of the hair, leaving it dry, weak, or prone to breakage. After the hair processing, the cuticle may not fully close, which results in coarse hair or an accelerated loss of pigment. Generally, the lighter the chosen colour from one's initial hair color, the more damaged it may be. Other options for applying color to hair besides chemical dyes include the use of such herbs as henna and indigo, or choosing ammonia-free solutions.


Perms and chemical straightening

Perms and relaxation using relaxer or thermal reconditioning involve chemical alteration of the internal structure of the hair in order to affect its curliness or straightness. Hair that has been subjected to the use of a permanent is weaker due to the application of chemicals, and should be treated gently and with greater care than hair that isn't chemically altered.