Lustrous Henna®

DIY All-Natural Hair Care with Ancient Botanicals

DIY All-Natural Hair Care Works for Me

This writer chooses all-natural hair care. When I used harmful hair-smoothing treatments containing chemicals like formaldehyde; along with the regular use of chemical hair dye filled with PPD (para-phenylenediamine), I seriously damaged my hair and scalp. I fell for the TV advertising and even products promoted by my former hair stylists.  Fortunately, my current natural hair care routine has helped my hair to become healthier and my hair loss has stopped. I rarely use heat on my hair; when I do, I take proper precautions, using natural botanicals to protect my locks. 

I can honestly say that all-natural products from Saba Botanical of USA have not disappointed me. The products that helped me to naturally transition from chemical relaxers and chemical hair dye to all-natural hair care. I’m not the only one who has experienced superior natural hair care. The testimonial page on their website, as well as a number of blog posts contain true experiences of many happy and satisfied men and women, who sing the praises of these ancient botanicals.

By switching to all natural plant-based hair care, you too, can avoid formaldehyde exposure and a host of other dangerous chemicals in conventional hair products. The following links can further help you make the wise decision to get started on a natural hair care regime.

Let DIY All-Natural Hair Care Work for You

A few of the Herbal Hair and Body Treatments
by Saba Botanical of USA 

Lustrous Henna^®100% natural plant-based hair dye for men and women, contains the finest quality 100% pure, highly sifted henna, mixed with 100% all-natural herbal extracts of ancient botanicals that vary depending on hair color shade. It comes in 11 natural hair color shades. Lab-certified, to be free of PPD also known as Para-Phenylenediamine and PTD or Para-toluenediamine, and does not contain ammonia or peroxide. The dye release and application is much quicker than traditional henna application. 

Saba’s Body Art Quality Henna. The finest quality pure henna powder, perfectly sifted, and with the highest henna dye content. An excellent choice for traditional henna hair coloring. This 100% natural, pure henna is grown in Rajasthan, India. Rajasthani henna is widely acclaimed as the source of the world’s best henna, being farmed and produced for generations.  

Saba’s Pure Indigo for Hair. When henna and indigo is combined together for hair coloring it can result in natural black, jet black, blue-black, purplish black or dark brown hair. The results may vary, depending upon the process, hair condition, percentage of gray and how you use your henna and indigo in this process. Henna and Indigo application can be done in either a two-step or one-step process. Use together or separately, either way the results are admirable.

Saba’s Cassia Obovata. Cassia Obovata is a green powder like henna, but unlike henna, it does not deposit any color.
It’s an excellent conditioning herb, also known to help with the hair loss. It can also be mixed with other herbs as Amla, Shikakai for conditioning and other health benefits to hair & scalp.

Saba’s Bhringraj Powder. Bhringraj is an Ayurvedic herb found throughout India. Bhringraj means “Ruler of the hair”. It is best for hair loss, Premature graying of hair. It also helps to make hair strong.

Lustrous Henna® All Natural Shampoo Powder. Sulfate-free and preservative-free herbal shampoo, Contains herbs that are known for the following benefits: Natural hair conditioning, hair softening, fights against dandruff, helps fix hair split ends, prevents hair loss, helps cure scalp problems.

Imbue Natural Shampoo. A sulfate-free, gentle shampoo that contains herbal extracts of Soapnut (Reetha Fruit) Amla fruit, Shikakai, Henna, and more.

Imbue Natural Conditioner. It contains hair-enriching botanicals such as Bhringrai extract, Almond oil, Wheat germ oil and Aloe Vera gel to banish split ends and promote incredibly smooth, tangle-free hair.

Saba’s Shikakai Powder.  Acacia concinna or “Fruit for Hair” is a mild cleansing shampoo known to promote hair growth by nourishing the scalp at the glandular level. It can also strengthen hair roots.

Saba’s Amla Fruit Powder. Amla is wonderful cleansing agent for both the skin and hair. It imparts luster to hair and protects from dandruff, also helps prevent premature graying. It stimulates growth of hair on the scalp, and strengthens the hair roots. 

Saba’s Soapnut (Reetha Fruit) Powder It is an important ingredient in cleansers and shampoos. It can be used alone as a mild cleansing shampoo, like it has been for centuries in many households. In addition, it has been used for the treatment of eczema, psoriasis, and for removing freckles. 

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

Know Your Ingredients in a Lab-Certified All-Natural Hair Dye

Know Your Ingredients: Lustrous Henna^®

Ingredient labels can be so confusing on products that claim to be ‘all-natural’ or ‘herbal’. That’s true, even of pre-mixed henna dye currently being marketed in the U.S.A. Many companies combine inferior henna with dangerous chemicals and other additives. I can’t underscore this fact enough: Know your ingredients!

Be sure that each and every individual ingredient listed is completely natural and safe. If you don’t see a complete ingredient label, don’t buy it. If you have doubts, don’t buy it. Protect your precious locks and natural hair color.

• Lustrous Henna^® is an all-natural hair color for dying hair; includes pure, highly-sifted herbal henna, indigo leaf powder and other herbal extracts and powders. Dark hair colors are naturally achieved resulting in excellent black hair color, dark brown hair color, brown hair color and many more, along with excellent gray hair coverage.
• Lustrous Henna^® hair dye is nontoxic, contains no chemicals such as Para-phenlenediamine (PPD). It is PPD-free! 
• Lustrous Henna^® also does not contain ammonia, peroxide, or other synthetic dyes. 
• Lustrous Henna^® hair dye is laboratory certified to be totally free of chemicals and other contaminants.

Know your ingredients: henna hair dye is semi-permanent, also works as natural hair conditioner and helps with hair growth.The FDA (of USA) has approved henna as the only safe and effective alternative for natural hair color.

All-Natural Lustrous Henna^® is a True Echo-Friendly Hair Dye.

Hair Color by Nature.

The following chart lists the ingredients of Lustrous Henna^®. The order in which the ingredients are listed on individual shade packages -varies from one shade to another. Know your ingredients and achieve color by nature.

(Click above chart to enlarge)

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

Beauty Secret Revealed- Lustrous Henna® Hair All-Natural Dye

Share Your Lustrous Henna^® Beauty Secret

What if your beauty secret could benefit countless other men and women desperately seeking what you have in your possession? Would you REALLY share your best-kept beauty secret? Lustrous Henna^® is a beauty secret that many men and women love to keep to themselves. Let’s face it. It’s FUN keeping this kind of secret.

Think of the joy you felt the first time you used Lustrous Henna^®. Could you share that joy with others? There are so many other men and women that would really appreciate a natural alternative to harsh chemical hairdyes. The joy just gets greater the more you share it with others.

Lustrous Henna^® Beauty Secret Revealed

“I'm a 54 yrs. old "natural" brunette and LOVE Lustrous Henna^® and their wonderful customer service with Syed. A few months ago I was diagnosed with Lymphoma at Mayo Clinic with follow up 3 mos. visits to a Hematologist, blood specialist there. I then began to think about changing some of my lifestyle habits and a NATURAL Hair Color was an easy one to change. I am not on chemo since my Dr. says my own immune system is trying to fight this cancer. Chemo kills the good and the bad; therefore I'm thankful I do still have my hair at this time.

My friend introduced me to Lustrous Henna^® when I complemented her hair. I didn't even know she used any type of color on it, because it looked so natural. She ordered my first time with her order, to try it out. So I have twice now, due to shorter hair. So glad I heard about this henna from her!

I am thankful for the Lustrous Henna's shorter process time compared to others that require an extremely longer process and it leaves my hair in much, much better condition than when I did salon color.  My single priority, due to my health issue, is that it's safe, plus it looks and feels so natural and healthy. I can't say enough good about it.

It was my pleasure to visit with Syed a few days ago about Lustrous Henna^®. His patience and very informative manner is so helpful and refreshing. He is an asset to Lustrous Henna^® products. He helped me a great deal with tips on how to tone the gray as it grows in from my root line.

I sincerely thank you, Syed and Lustrous Henna^® for the difference you have made in my life.

I'll be ordering again soon.”

Warmest Regards,
Twyla R.  Greene IA

Thanks in advance for sharing your experience and sincere comments.
They’re guaranteed to make a difference in the life of someone currently looking for an alternative solution to using chemical hair dye.

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

Para-phenylenediamine (PPD) Allergic Reaction -Sufferers' Warning!

Para-phenylenediamine (PPD) in Hair Dye:  
The Warning

Perhaps you read of the sad tragic death of Tabitha McCourt, who was only 17 years old when she died from a severe dermatological allergic reaction to hair dye, a few years ago. Her death was relatively quick and shocking to everyone, as reported in the UK’s Daily Mail journal.

Even though an actual death from hair dye is rare, allergic reactions to hair dye are increasing, in recent years. The main culprit is the chemical Para-phenylenediamine (PPD) in Hair Dye. Did you know that several European countries have actually banned this dangerous chemical in hair dye? Para-phenylenediamine (PPD) is not the only substance that causes allergic contact dermatitis, but it’s the main one.

Did you know that EVERY time you use chemical-based hair dye, you risk getting allergic contact dermatitis? That’s because a severe dermatological allergic reaction can happen at any time. This means that just because you’ve never experienced a reaction in the past, doesn’t mean you’ll never suffer the sad consequences. The risk increases EVERY time you use chemical-based hair dye. I should know, it happened to me.

The Voice of a Few Sufferers

The following were comments made on a petition¹ initiated by Nadra K. Nittle of Change.org that are meant to prove that validity of the warning about Para-phenylenediamine (PPD) in Hair Dye.

“Following a trip to get my hair colored, I ended up in the emergency room after my face swelled to twice its normal size. It took more than a week and a course of steroids and antihistamines for me to recover. I’d colored my hair before with no trouble.” –N.K.Nittle

“I am a professional colorist, and understand the complexities of hair color and allergic reaction. There is no need for many of the harsh chemicals companies dump into product.” –Susan F.

“My daughter suffered a severe reaction to a hair tint that she gets on a regular basis. What a fright. This happened on the 2nd of October, 6 days before Tabatha McCourt. I am now terrified for my daughter or myself to ever get our hairs dyed again. Why, why, why don’t the so-called makers of these deadly hair dyes just eliminate the killer ppd from the dyes????” –Donna D.

“I've had numerous allergic reactions and have also been in hospital due to coming in contact with PPD. I'd never wish the side effects on my worst enemy - get rid of it!!!!” –Rach W.

“My daughter and my sister are allergic, I am very concerned about the issue of allergies and especially for those that are causing entirely preventable deaths. –Pilar J.

BE SAFE. Use 100% All-Natural Plant-based Hair Color Dye

All men and women deserve to be safe when coloring their hair and therefore should avoid the potential dangers of using synthetic chemical hair dye. Your health should be a priority –even when dying your hair.

¹Nadra K.Nittle of Change.org (Stop Using Para-phenylenediamine (PPD) in Hair Dye)

² Tabitha McCourt’s tragic hair dye experience.

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

Permanent Hair Dye –Another Unsafe Chemical You Should Know

How Safe is P-Toluenediamine in Permanent Hair Dye?

It depends on whose hair color research (or lack of it) you choose to rely on. Natural hair color safety should be paramount in your choice of hair coloring dye.

After extensive scientific research, the European Commission (Health and Consumer Safety) concluded that the use of toluene-2,5-diamine cannot be considered safe for hair coloring or hair shaft . The National Allergy Research Centre in Denmark concluded that hair color dye users need more protection and a ‘preventative strategy’ to reduce cases of severe allergic contact dermatitis.

Common Permanent Hair Dye Chemical Ingredients

“Toluene-2,5-Diamine and Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate are used as ingredients in the formulation of permanent hair dyes, colors and tints. Toluene-3,4-Diamine may also be used in hair dye products.” (1) This permanent hair color chemical has also been called para-toluenediamine (PTD) or p-toluenediamine.

Haz-Map Report:
Toluene-2,5-diamine in Hair Coloring is UNSAFE.

“Can be absorbed through skin; [ICSC] A potent skin sensitizer, with positive patch test results observed in hairdressers with dermatitis; occupational hazard in hair dressers: allergic contact dermatitis.”⁽²⁾

Scientific Committee on Consumer Products Concludes:
Toluene-2,5-diamine in Hair Coloring is UNSAFE.

“The SCCP is of the opinion that the use of toluene-2,5-diamine cannot be considered safe based on the available data. This conclusion may be re-evaluated if human toxicokinetic data were to become available in which dosages used more closely approximate the intended use of the substance.

Toluene-2,5-diamine is an extremely potent skin sensitizer.

Clarification must be given on the myocyte degeneration in the dose range finding study of the 90 day study.

Toluene-2,5-diamine sulfate itself has no mutagenic potential in vivo.

However, studies on genotoxicity/mutagenicity in finished hair dye formulations should be undertaken following the relevant SCCNFP/SCCP opinions and in accordance with its Notes of Guidance.” (3)

National Allergy Research Centre Concludes:
Toluene-2,5-diamine in Hair Coloring is UNSAFE.

“Colouring of hair can cause severe allergic contact dermatitis. The most frequently reported hair dye allergens are c (PPD) and toluene-2,5-diamine, which are included in, respectively, the patch test standard series and the hairdressers series. The aim of the present study was to identify dye precursors and couplers in hair dyeing products causing clinical hair dye dermatitis and to compare the data with the contents of these compounds in a randomly selected set of similar products… Hair dye allergy may cause severe clinical reactions, and the current regulation is insufficient in protection of the users. A preventive strategy is needed.” (4)

USA Expert Panel Opinion
Toluene-2,5-diamine in Hair Coloring is SAFE.

The conclusion of the Cosmetic Ingredient Review should not be much of a surprise. Why?

We must consider whom they work for (as mentioned on their own website): They’re a trade association, based in Washington, D.C., that represents the cosmetic, toiletry and fragrance industry in the United States and globally. Founded in 1894, the Council has a membership of more than 600 companies including manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers of the vast majority of finished personal care products marketed in the United States ." ⁽¹⁾ 

Simply stated:

This Council actually represents the manufacturers who actively promote the use of chemicals like para-toluenediamine (PTD) or p- toluenediamine in their hair color products.

Therefore, even though the Council provides extremely valuable information on other topics, how can this expert conclusion on this particular issue be deemed as totally accurate? 

Even expert conclusions can be confusing and at times, overwhelming. However, as consumers, it is wise to take extra precautions to be safe and protect our health against unsafe and potentially dangerous chemicals used in hair dye.

 Resources:

⁽¹⁾ Cosmetic Ingredient Review Council. Washington, DC. USA.

⁽²⁾Haz-Map findings on Toluene-2,5-diamine sulfate.

⁽³⁾ National Allergy Research Centre, Department of Dermatology, University of Copenhagen Gentofte Hospital, Denmark

⁽⁴⁾ Scientific Committee on Consumer Products

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

Saba Botanical of USA Pure Indigo Reviews

About Pure Indigo Leaves Powder by Saba Botanical

Indigo has been used since ancient times as a natural dye. The botanical name is Indigofera Tinctoria. It was used by men and women to dye textiles and hair. The dye is made from processing the plant’s leaves by soaking them in water and allowing them to ferment. This converts the natural glycoside indicant into the dye, indigotin. It can then be pressed into cakes, dried and powdered.

As a hair dye, pure indigo is a green plant and the green leaves are dried, crushed and powdered. When used properly with pure henna, it will create shades ranging from brown to jet black color.  It also makes hair soft and silky to the touch.

Saba Botanical of USA Pure Indigo Reviews

Recent unsolicited endorsements: Here are more natural hair product reviews that have made a difference. The following customer reviews appear just as they were sent to Saba Botanical of USA (other than typo correction). E-mail addresses and last names have been removed (unless given permission to use full name) for the sake of customer privacy.

I love my blue/black hair! Very high quality Indigo. It mixed well and rinsed out very easily and I have super curly (now thick from Henna) hair. I love how well my purchase was packaged - nice and air tight and everything was FRESH! …Great product, great customer care/follow up/affordable prices and I LOVE THE JET BLACK (bluish highlights in sun) that I achieved. Thanks Guys!!! –Mony M., Albuquerque, NM USA

Indigo. Very pleased with this. I was a bit unsure of this that it might have been too dark, but I mix equal parts henna and indigo and leave on for three hours. As noted under the henna review, my hair has stopped falling out and the colour is right. Thank you Saba Botanical. –Kerida H., Coolup, Western Australia

My husband’s 60% gray hair. For the 2nd application; I mixed 2 parts Soft Black Henna with 1 part Indigo. The choc brown coverage was very nice. Only a shimmer of gray/silver hair -that's not very noticeable. –Jacqueline A., South Amboy, NJ USA 

Covers my gray hair! I get jet-black hair with indigo and Lustrous Henna. I often follow up an application of Lustrous Henna with half a pack of your pure indigo (on my medium-length hair). I mix it in a paste with hot tap water and sprinkle a little sea salt to speed up dye release. I add one or two drops of lavender, rosemary and ylang-ylang oils for natural fragrance. I wash the Lustrous Henna out of my hair, and then apply the indigo paste. I cover my hair with plastic and sit under the hair dryer for about an hour. I love the results and get lots of compliments! Thanks. Antoinette W., Boston, MA USA

Have More Product Reviews for Saba Botanical of USA?

Send Us Your Saba Botanical Product Reviews

We love reading and sharing your product reviews! Want to us send other natural hair product reviews? We’re here to help our customers. We encourage you to leave customer reviews for other Saba Botanical of USA products. We also love before and after photos of your positive experiences. 

However, if you happen to encounter any problems with any products, instructions, shipping or service, please contact Saba Botanical of USA promptly. We want to help each customer learn how to use the products correctly to ensure the best results.

Thank you for your Saba Botanical Product Reviews and continued support!

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

Allergy Test for Premium Quality Henna Hair Dye. Why?

Why Perform an Allergy Test on Premium Henna Hair Dye?

Lustrous Henna® is a laboratory tested, premium quality, henna hair dye. Lab testing certifies that Lustrous Henna® is non-toxic and does not contain chemicals such as para-phenlenediamine (PPD). Lustrous Henna® also does not contain ammonia, peroxide, or other synthetic dyes. It’s 100% all-natural, plant-based hair dye. 

Lustrous Henna® hair dye gives coating on your hair shaft and stays on the hair shaft, as a semi-permanent, natural hair color dye. Lustrous Henna® hair dye thickens and nourishes your hair shaft while increasing its strength. It's extremely gentle and actually conditions the hair, thus leaving it supple and radiant.

However, anyone can be allergic to anything -even natural products that come from Mother Earth. There are several substances found in nature that a person can be allergic to and therefore should avoid using. For example, some people are allergic to peanuts, bananas, mushrooms and the list goes on. Thus, even though an allergic reaction to pure natural henna (or any of the other ingredients) in Lustrous Henna® is extremely slim, it is still advisable to perform an allergy test.

Allergy Skin Test

Perform the allergy test at least 48 hours before you dye your hair. Make a paste of a small amount of Lustrous Henna® powder in a cup. Dermatologists suggest that you smear the paste on the inside of your elbow (it's one of the most sensitive parts of your skin). Leave the paste on for at least 24 hours. If you see raised welts (hives) or severe itching, do not use the product to dye your hair. 

Hair Strand Test

The strand test is exactly what it sounds like. Choose a hair strand. Make a small amount of Lustrous Henna® dye paste. With gloved hands completely saturate hair with the dye paste. Wrap strand in plastic. Leave it in for the amount of time you'll leave the dye on your head. Wash hair. Check color. The color will slightly darken after 24 hours.

Lustrous Henna® Hair Dye Certified Safe

How slim are the chances of getting an allergic reaction from any of our natural botanicals? To this date, Saba Botanical of USA has never received a report of allergic reaction from anyone. Of course, this is very good news. However, reminders are still helpful and that is the reason for this posting.

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

Compound Henna is Hazardous to Your Hair –a Safety Reminder.

Warning: Compound Henna is NOT All-Natural Henna

Exactly what’s in that box of henna hair dye mix? You may be surprise to learn that this ‘compound henna’ hair dye is not 100% all-natural henna.

In fact, most ‘compound henna’ hair dye are usually a dangerous compound of inferior quality henna, that contains lower dye content and is mixed with harmful additives and synthetic dyes that can cause severe allergic reaction. The package may contain PPD (para-phenylenediamine), ammonia or peroxide. However, even if it doesn’t, this type of hair dye may other hazardous chemicals, such as harsh metallic salts, alcohol and synthetic dyes. Sadly, the low-quality henna is mixed with synthetic dyes and ‘who knows what else’. This scary mixture is commonly referred to as, 'Compound Henna' hair dye.

The product is normally packaged with an image of a beautiful woman with long, radiant hair on the cover. The average consumer is tempted to buy this product based on the image. Should we?

Where’s the Ingredient Label?

Maybe we decide to look beyond the image and try and find the ingredient label. We might be surprised that this so-called 'all-natural' henna hair dye doesn't appear to have an ingredient label! Who really knows what is mixed in with this inferior henna??  Don’t buy it.

Perhaps, you’re now wondering, “How can such products sold without an ingredient label?” It does seem mysterious. However, the answer is that in the countries where the henna is grown, they might not be required to list the ingredients on the label. Once exported, the U.S. importer is not required to re-label the product.

Additionally, the FDA* states, “Because the FPLA does not apply to cosmetic samples and products used exclusively by professionals--for example, for application at a salon, or a booth at a fair or boardwalk--the requirement for an ingredient declaration does not apply to these products.”

That is why purchasing 'mysterious' henna mixed with unknown additives and synthetic dyes can be a costly and potentially dangerous experience**, even when bought at a “professional” beauty supply store.

What to Do? What to Do?

Actually, there are two very safe options when considering what kind of henna hair dye to buy that will protect your precious mane –especially if you want to cover previously chemically-dyed hair:

• Use BODY ART QUALITY HENNA to color your hair. For instructions on the traditional method of application or slightly quicker baked application method, just click the links (in this sentence). 
  
  
• For any PRE-MIXED HENNA HAIR COLOR: Know the source and reputation of the company selling the product. Make sure ALL ingredients are 100% all natural and that the henna is top-quality, pure henna. Check out current customer reviews.

An Important Note about Lustrous Henna® Hair Dye

Lustrous Henna® Hair Color is NOT 'Compound Henna'.
Lustrous Henna® is Color by Nature.

Lustrous Henna® Hair Color is:

• Premixed from the finest herbal ingredients.
• Lab-certified to be free of synthetic dyes and additives. 
• It does NOT contain metallic salts or added mineral salts. 
• To achieve the various shades of color, pure henna is mixed with other totally natural botanical extracts. 
• Lustrous Henna® is 100% all natural hair dye: This is also the reason it remains in natural powder form. Safety in natural hair care is a top priority.
• Lustrous Henna® is pure henna, highly sifted and the 100% all natural botanical ingredients are listed on every package, on the company blog and website.

Resources:  *FDA.gov Cosmetics: Product Ingredient Safety Information-ucm108569: Henna/Mehndi.

**Contact Dermatitis. Volume 55, Issue 1, pages 26–29, July 2006.Quantification of para-phenylenediamine and heavy metals in henna dye. Ik-Joon Kang, Mu-Hyoung Lee.

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis Pain from Chemical Hair Dye and PPD?

Sharing Your Pain: Allergic Contact Dermatitis

It’s painful to read of the physical and emotional scarring and distress caused by allergic contact dermatitis from hair dye chemicals such as, PPD (para-phenylenediamine), especially if you’ve suffered the same sad consequences. Yet, it still helps to share and learn of a solution to this dangerous substance and the potential adverse reaction it can cause to the user –even after years of use with no apparent problems.

According to many dermatologists, there are many cases of men and women who suffered from allergic reaction to permanent chemical dyes, PPD (para-phenylenediamine). Some have been dying their hair for many years; then suddenly they’re faced with a severe allergic reaction to chemical hair dye. They yearn for an alternative solution. I’ve included a few comments to give you an idea of what the sufferer feels.*

Allergic Contact Dermatitis Sufferer Comments

“Dyed my moustache hair using permanent hair dye. I've had a very bad reaction around my mouth, which has left me looking like a swollen duck. Corticosteroid cream I think only made it worse. I am now just using Flamazine to treat any infection. The area is extremely swollen and burns and itches like hell. Does anyone know if this will be permanent? My concern is that its not just a skin reaction which usually clears up, but an actual chemical burn which of course may never clear up.” –Danny.

“I have been dying my hair for many years, and suddenly I have developed an allergic reaction, along my hairline and behind my ears, it was pretty serious, I am on medication, but I desperately need to dye my hair, is there anything I can use, I was told to use non-permanent hair dye, Do you think it will be alright to use?”

-Veronica.

“I'm 47years old & have been highlighting my hair for years. The last 5 years I've been coloring my whole head. I started having an allergic reaction 6 months ago with itchy swollen eyes every day. I have been blaming it on hormone changes due to the start of menopause. But on Sunday, I had the worst reaction to date. Not only did my eyes swell, but also my whole face blew up and my neck as well. I had severe itching and weeping behind my ears and started to feel tingling in my left hand. I had prednisone prescribed and it helped by the night. I can't believe that no one has developed a color without that horrific chemical ppd. I know I cannot color my hair again; I truly fear after this reaction. I hate the thought of going gray, but my life is more important than that.” –Monica.

The Natural Hair Dye Answer

In addition to giving you an understanding of just how real chemical dye allergy is I want share news of a proven, safe and natural alternative.There is a 100% natural and proven hair treatment that will color your hair in beautiful, radiant shades. Lustrous Henna® has been used happily by many former sufferers of chemical hair dye and PPD allergy, including its creator: Syed Abbas and yours truly: L.J. O’Neal.

Read more about Lustrous Henna®. It is a plant-based herbal hair color dye and is PPD-free, peroxide-free and ammonia-free.  Learn about Lustrous Henna® ingredients. 

 

*Source on file. Spelling and grammar errors have been corrected. Commenters’ names are on file, but have been changed in this article.

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.

How Safe is P-Toluenediamine in Permanent Hair Color Dye?

Is P-Toluenediamine in Permanent Hair Color Dye?

“Toluene-2,5-Diamine and Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate are used as ingredients in the formulation of permanent hair dyes, colors and tints. Toluene-3,4-Diamine may also be used in hair dye products.” ¹This permanent hair color chemical has also been called para-toluenediamine (PTD) or p-toluenediamine. So is it safe when used in permanent hair color dye?

It depends on whose hair color research (or lack of it) you choose to rely on. Natural hair color safety should be paramount in your choice of hair coloring dye.

After extensive scientific research, the European Commission (Health and Consumer Safety) concluded that the use of toluene-2,5-diamine cannot be considered safe for hair coloring or hair shaft . The National Allergy Research Centre in Denmark concluded that hair color dye users need more protection and a ‘preventative strategy’ to reduce cases of severe allergic contact dermatitis.

UNSAFE: Determination by Scientific Committee on Consumer Products Conclusion on Toluene-2,5-diamine in Hair Coloring

“The SCCP is of the opinion that the use of toluene-2,5-diamine cannot be considered safe based on the available data. This conclusion may be re-evaluated if human toxicokinetic data were to become available in which dosages used more closely approximate the intended use of the substance.

· Toluene-2,5-diamine is an extremely potent skin sensitizer.

· Clarification must be given on the myocyte degeneration in the dose range finding study of the 90 day study.

· Toluene-2,5-diamine sulfate itself has no mutagenic potential in vivo.

However, studies on genotoxicity/mutagenicity in finished hair dye formulations should be undertaken following the relevant SCCNFP/SCCP opinions and in accordance with its Notes of Guidance.” ²

UNSAFE: Determination by National Allergy Research Centre Abstract on Toluene-2,5-diamine in Hair Coloring

“Colouring of hair can cause severe allergic contact dermatitis. The most frequently reported hair dye allergens are p-phenylenediamine (PPD) and toluene-2,5-diamine, which are included in, respectively, the patch test standard series and the hairdressers series. The aim of the present study was to identify dye precursors and couplers in hair dyeing products causing clinical hair dye dermatitis and to compare the data with the contents of these compounds in a randomly selected set of similar products… Hair dye allergy may cause severe clinical reactions, and the current regulation is insufficient in protection of the users. A preventive strategy is needed.” ³

SAFE: Determination by USA Expert Panel Opinion on Toluene-2,5-diamine in Hair Coloring

On the opposite side of the dilemma is the conclusion on use of these permanent hair color ingredients by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel. They state that Toluene-2,5-Diamine and Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate are safe for use as permanent hair color dye ingredients:

“The safety of Toluene-2,5-Diamine, Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate and Toluene-3,4-Diamine has been assessed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel. The CIR Expert Panel evaluated the scientific data and concluded that Toluene-2,5-Diamine and Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate were safe for use as hair dye ingredients . The CIR Expert Panel concluded that the data were insufficient to assess the safety of Toluene-3,4-Diamine as a hair dye ingredient .¹

Who is the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel?

Before deciding to continue using chemical hair color dyes, let’s learn more about the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel and who they work for- from their own website:

“Cosmeticsinfo.org is an information Web site that includes factual, scientific information on ingredients most commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products in the United States. The Personal Care Products Council (the Council) and its member companies sponsor this Web site to provide consumers with easily accessible comprehensive safety information on cosmetics and personal care products and to help consumers make informed purchases.”¹

Cosmeticinfo.org –website sponsor of Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR)

“Based in Washington, D.C., the Council is the trade association representing the cosmetic toiletry and fragrance industry in the United States and globally. Founded in 1894, the Council has a membership of more than 600 companies including manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers of the vast majority of finished personal care products marketed in the United States.”¹ (Italics ours)

This council actually represents the manufacturers who actively promote the use of chemicals like para-toluenediamine (PTD) or p-toluenediamine in their hair color products! Therefore, even though the Council provides extremely valuable information on other topics, how can this expert conclusion on this particular issue be deemed as totally accurate? 

Reported ‘facts’ can be confusing and at times, overwhelming. As consumers, it is wise to take extra precautions to be safe and protect our hair color.
Only you can decide whom you will listen to.

 Source: ¹Cosmetic Ingredient Review Council. Washington, DC. USA. ²National Allergy Research Centre, Department of Dermatology, University of Copenhagen Gentofte Hospital, Denmark. ³Scientific Committee on Consumer Products

Read real customer testimonials.

 Author: L.J. O'Neal, writer and researcher. (L.J. is also a Lustrous Henna®  user.)

©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Do not copy or reprint this article without the consent of the author or Saba Botanical of USA.

Want to view our website? Go to:Saba Botanical of USA

 *Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.