The Chemistry of Ion Hair Dye

Main Chemicals, Compounds, Components

NH3 and H2O2

Ammonia and Peroxide are the two main components of Ion Color Brilliance Crème Permanent Hair Color. Ammonia is an alkaline chemical, a colorless gas used that opens the cuticle and allows the dye to access the hair. It is also a catalyst when the dye itself comes together with the peroxide, which is used as the developer. The developer removes pre-existing color. Peroxide breaks down chemical bonds in hair, and the sulfur is released. As the melanin is decolorized, a new permanent color is bonded to the hair cortex from the crème color. Various types of alcohols and conditioners are also present in this hair color. The conditioners are used to close the cuticle after coloring and protect the new color.

Chemistry's Role

The outer layer of the hair, or the cuticle, must be opened before permanent color can be deposited. Once the layer is open, the dye reacts with the inner portion, or cortex, of the hair, to deposit the color. The reaction involves a two-step process that first removes the original color of the hair and then deposits the new color. After this reaction, the color is bonded within the hair shaft. During this process, the ammonia and peroxide, which are explained in more depth in the following section, react and break down the already existing bonds, releasing sulfur. The sulfur is what causes the distinguishing odor of hair color. Throughout the reaction, while the previous bonds are broken, a new permanent color is bonded to the hair cortex. Once the dying is complete, the conditioner/alcohol that is mixed closes the cuticles and protects the hair, leaving it soft and rejuvenated. Showering after dying will give best results because this will wash out the reactants in the color and further condition your hair.

Background Research

Ion Hair Color is a dye that uses pure ionic micro pigments to penetrate the hair to create a deeper color with more intensity. It creates shine, fade-resistant color and conditioning. It penetrates the cuticle layer of the hair, and guarantees 100% gray coverage.

Directions on Ion Packaging: 1:1 mixing ratio. Two ounces of color to two ounces of 10, 20, 30 or 40 Volume Ion Sensitive Scalp Creme Developer. High Lift Blonde series is mixed 1:2 ratio: Two ounces of color to 4 ounces of 30 or 40 Volume Ion Sensitive Scalp Developer. Bowl and brush application is recommended.

The Ion Dye is rated at an average 4.1 out of 5, after 210 reviews have been submitted on MakeupAlley.

Resources

http://chemistry.about.com/cs/howthingswork/a/aa101203a.htm