Efficacy of Some Plants Extracts for Natural Dyeing of Human Hair

Abstract

Interest in natural hair dyes is continuously growing as these are green alternatives to synthetic dyes. A single natural dye may not be the right color for many people. In this study three different mixtures of famous natural hair dye Lawsonia inermis with different other plants were evaluated for their new shades and dyeing properties. Color strengths of naturally dyed hair were also compared with synthetic dyes and individual plants as well. Mordanting was carried out using some metals and a natural mordant which increased the color strength and wash durability of natural dyes. Colorimetric properties of dyed hair were obtained in terms of CIEL*a*b* and K/S values. Maximum value of K/S was obtained by postmordanting of dyed hair with ferrous sulfate. Yellowish brown to brown shades were obtained by natural dye combinations which were changed to black after application of mordants. The color strength was acceptable even after twenty washes. Overall color strength values of naturally dyed hair with plant mixtures were much higher than individual plants extract. However, these color strength values are very comparable with the synthetic hair dyes proving natural dye combinations be successful candidates for natural hair dyeing with good performance and properties.

Keywords

• natural hair dyeing
• curcuma longa
• lawsonia inermis
• punica granatum
• mordanting