Hair Coloring

Shopping For Answers: A patch test is key when trying hair dye

Published: Wednesday, 04 July 2007 07:07:04
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By Leigh Grogan

DEAR SHOPPING: Help! I am allergic to commercial hair dyes and desperately need a hypoallergenic product. I have used henna and other products, but they only last a week or so. I would appreciate any leads.

-- Charney, Chico

DEAR CHARNEY: Most allergic reactions to hair color can be traced to a chemical called paraphenylenediamine, or PPD. Reactions can also occur because of bleach, ammonia or peroxide. Even some of the milder hair colors have small concentrations of these chemicals. Check your local listings for a natural foods co-op or Whole Foods Market. They often sell natural hair dyes that are plant-based. Unfortunately, as with henna, the results don't last very long. That's what those pesky chemicals are for.

Also, believe it or not, another option might be Grecian Formula in the clear formula. Just because it was designed for men doesn't mean women can't use it. No matter what you buy, always do a 24-hour patch test on your skin (maybe behind the ear) to see if you have an allergic reaction.

DEAR SHOPPING: I picked up a sample of Elon nail cream at my dermatologist's office. You massage it on your fingernails, and it really works. I got it at Walgreens, but they no longer can special-order it for me.

-- Barbara, Citrus Heights

DEAR BARBARA: The Dermstore carries Elon Nail Conditioner. You can order, toll-free, at (800) 213-3376. It's $11.99 a tube. Other options? Onyx makes a Nail Strengthener Cream ($6.49) that's sold at Ulta. Vaseline's Intensive Care Healthy Hand & Nail Revitalizing Hand Lotion ($3.79) is good because it contains keratin and vitamin E, which are essential for strong nails. The other tip is to keep your cuticles in good shape. If they get torn, jagged or dry, it affects the health of your nails. A manicure is worth it every 10 days if possible.

DEAR READERS: Several shoppers e-mailed that there are stores in the area that carry the China Rain oil-based scent that Selby was looking for:

Mixed Bag, 2405 K St., offers 3.8 ounces of China Rain for $14.

Total Beauty Experience, 2929 Arden Way, sells the Body Time China Rain cologne mist, cologne roller ball and perfume oil. The store also stocks a China Rain perfume essence oil from the TerraNova bath and body line.

Source: The Sacramento Bee