Oxidation Dyes - How they work

Permanent Hair Colour

The Jarocol™ Oxidation Dyes are suitable for permanent and demi-permanent or long lasting semi-permanent applications.

Oxidation dyes are typically colourless, low molecular weight products. They can pass through the cuticle into the hair shaft, where they oxidise to generate a larger, coloured molecule trapped inside the hair. A permanent or long lasting result is achieved giving good grey coverage.

The oxidation dyes fall into two categories, oxidation base (primary intermediate) and coupler (secondary intermediate). To generate colour using these products, at least one of each type must be combined with a suitable oxidant under alkaline conditions.

The application conditions determine the durability of the colour result. A permanent colour capable of lightening the hair's natural pigmentation will typically contain ammonia and will be used with hydrogen peroxide 6% or higher. A softer alkali may be used with low strength hydrogen peroxide to provide a long lasting result with less impact on the structure of the hair. The latter is unable to produce a colour result lighter than the original hair.

A typical permanent hair colorant pack will contain at least two, usually three separate components. The colorant in liquid or cream form will be mixed together with the developer (peroxide) immediately prior to application. The colour is often followed by treatment with a special conditioner that is included in the package.

Because of the ability to cover grey and give long lasting results, oxidation dyes are the most popular class of hair colorants. They provide the largest range of shades to suit many markets, including fashion, colour enhancement and grey control.